J&K in grip of driest early winter with 86% deficiency in rainfall: Data

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 10 (STC): Jammu and Kashmir is currently facing one of the driest early winter phases in recent years. The region 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, reveals data compiled by Kashmir Weather.
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, the weather department said.
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, warn Meteorologists.
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.
(Straight Talk Communications)