October saw a 74 per cent rainfall deficit in Jammu Kashmir, with only 8.7 mm recorded against the normal 33.1 mm.
In Kashmir region, south Kashmir faced the most extreme shortages, with deficits from 95% to 100%, while Central Kashmir recorded 85% to 91% deficits.
In north Kashmir, Bandipora, Baramulla, and Kupwara saw deficits of 90%, 91%, and 57% respectively.
In the Jammu division, districts like Doda, Jammu, and Kathua reported deficits from 32% to 45%, with most others, barring Samba, facing 50% to 97% deficits. Notably, Samba saw an unusual 250% above-normal rainfall.
In Ladakh, Kargil recorded a complete 100% shortfall, while Leh faced an 88% deficit.
This dry spell continues from last winter, disrupting both hydropower generation and agriculture.
Power plants are operating at minimal levels due to low water levels in rivers like the Jhelum, risking further outages if drought conditions persist.
Meanwhile, Independent weather forecaster, Kashmir Weather has predicted a completely dry spell for the next 10 days, likely causing further drops in water levels in rivers and streams, impacting multiple sectors.
The unusual dry spells since last winter have resulted in record-low water levels in key rivers, like the Jhelum, directly affecting power generation in the valley.
The state’s hydroelectric plants are operating at just a fraction of their potential; for instance, in December, local officials reported that due to the water shortage, winter power generation in Jammu and Kashmir fell by 85%, from 1,200 MW to merely 150 MW.
Agriculture is also bearing the brunt of the drought. With rainfall deficits extending over recent months, farmers face challenges in irrigating their crops, risking reduced yields and food supply impacts.