Jammu and Kashmir has experienced an 81 percent rainfall deficit over the past three months, along with a long-lasting cold wave. From October 1 to December 25, 2024, the region received only 21.0 mm of rain, compared to the usual 110.0 mm for this period.
Shopian in South Kashmir had the highest deficit at 97 percent. Poonch in Jammu division and Kulgam in South Kashmir followed with deficits of 96 percent and 95 percent, respectively.
Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded an 88 percent rainfall deficit. Udhampur in Jammu division had a similar shortfall. Pulwama in South Kashmir and Kishtwar in Jammu division both recorded a 92 percent deficit, while Budgam in Central Kashmir reported a 91 percent shortfall.
Kupwara in North Kashmir had a lower deficit, receiving 69.6 mm of rain against the normal 133.7 mm for the period.
Samba was the only place in JK to record above-normal rainfall, with 47.0 mm received compared to the normal 42.2 mm.
Anantnag in South Kashmir recorded an 89 percent rainfall deficit. Bandipora and Baramulla registered 76 percent and 73 percent shortfalls, respectively.
Meanwhile, Srinagar recorded a low temperature of minus 7.3°C. Qazigund, the gateway to Kashmir, logged minus 6.6°C. Kupwara registered minus 6.4°C, while Pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded minimum temperatures of minus 8.4°C and minus 6.6°C, respectively.
The Meteorological Department (MeT) predicts generally cloudy weather from December 27 to 28, with light rain in Jammu’s plains and light snow over the higher areas of the Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal Range.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the MeT Department, said dry weather is expected from December 29-31. However, light snow is forecast for some places on January 1 and 2, with scattered snowfall anticipated on January 3 and 4.
