Srinagar, Dec 10, KDC: Jammu and Kashmir continues to reel under an abnormally long dry spell, with no significant precipitation recorded since November 5, pushing the region into a massive rainfall deficit and triggering growing concerns over dwindling river levels and rising forest fire risk.
According to data compiled by Kashmir Weather, J&K has received only 6.1 mm of rainfall between November 1 and December 9, against a normal average of 43.1 mm for this period. This translates to a steep 86% deficiency, marking one of the driest early winter phases in recent years.
The prolonged dryness has started impacting the region’s water bodies. The water level of the Jhelum River at Sangam has dipped to –0.59 ft, slipping below the zero-gauge level. While not the lowest level ever recorded, officials and experts note that it is among the most concerning readings seen in recent years. With no significant rain or snowfall expected in the next week, the river is likely to recede further.
Meteorologists warn that the persistent dry weather has also heightened the possibility of forest fires across several vulnerable zones in Jammu and Kashmir. The combination of dry vegetation, lack of moisture, and increased surface heating has created conditions favourable for fire outbreaks, reported news agency Kashmir Dot Com.
Experts say the continued precipitation deficit, if prolonged, could have far-reaching impacts on agriculture, water storage, winter snowfall accumulation, and overall ecological balance in the region. (KDC)
