JK reports 74% deficit; Ladakh faces 89% shortfall in precipitation, South Kashmir reports up to 100% deficit; Samba only district with excess rain; Extended dry spell forecasted
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir, along with Ladakh, has witnessed significant rainfall deficits for October, raising concerns about water availability and agricultural impacts in the region.
According to an independent weather forecaster, Kashmir weather, the Jammu and Kashmir recorded a rainfall deficit of 74%, receiving only 8.7 mm of rain against the normal average of 33.1 mm for the month.
In South Kashmir, rainfall deficits were particularly severe, with recorded figures ranging from -95% to -100%. Central Kashmir also faced substantial shortfalls, with deficits ranging from -85% to -91%. Specific districts reported notable deficits: Bandipora saw a decrease of 90%, Baramulla reported a 91% deficit, and Kupwara recorded a 57% drop in rainfall.
In the Jammu region, districts such as Doda, Jammu, and Kathua experienced deficits between -32% and -45%. Most other districts in this region, excluding Samba, faced deficits between -50% and -97%. Samba stood out as the only district to exceed normal rainfall levels, recording an increase of 250%.
In Ladakh, the situation is equally concerning. Kargil reported a complete rainfall deficit of -100%, while Leh recorded an -88% deficit, leading to an overall deficit of 89% in the Union Territory.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has forecast completely dry weather for the next ten days, which may further exacerbate the water crisis. Experts warn that this prolonged dry spell could lead to a significant drop in water levels of rivers and streams, impacting local ecosystems and water supply for communities.—(News Vibes of India)
