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Kashmir's Snowfall Deficit Sparks Water Worries as Chillai Kalan Nears End

Night temperatures saw a marginal improvement across Jammu and Kashmir, though conditions remain cold and dry. The Meteorological Department forecasts this generally dry weather to persist until January 20, with only light snowfall expected in higher reaches. A significant deficit of major snowfall in the Valley, and a complete absence of the season's first snow in the plains, is causing deep concern for summer water and agriculture. Specialists are advising vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with heart conditions, to take precautions against the harsh morning chill.

Key Points: J&K Snowfall Deficit Raises Summer Water, Agriculture Concerns

  • Marginal night temperature rise recorded
  • Major snowfall deficit in Valley plains
  • Dry, cold weather forecast till January 20
  • Chillai Kalan period ends Jan 30 with little snow
  • Snowfall deficit threatens summer water and agriculture
2 min read

J&K: Marginal improvement in night temperature, snowfall eludes Valley's plains

Marginal temperature rise in J&K, but major snowfall deficit in plains threatens summer water reserves and agriculture. Dry spell forecast till Jan 20.

J&K: Marginal improvement in night temperature, snowfall eludes Valley's plains
"the prospects of better fruit, agriculture and potable water in the hot summer months depend totally on a heavy winter snowfall - Meteorological Department"

Srinagar, Jan 7

The minimum temperature improved marginally across Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, as Srinagar city recorded minus 1.6 degrees Celsius.

Due to partial night-long cloud cover, the minimum temperature improved in Jammu and Kashmir as Srinagar recorded minus 1.6, Gulmarg minus 7.6 and Pahalgam minus 7.2.

Jammu city recorded 8.7 degrees Celsius, Katra town 6.2, Batote 3.1, Banihal 2.3 and Bhaderwah minus 2.6 as the night's lowest temperature.

The Meteorological Department has forecast that, except for a few feeble Western Disturbances causing light snowfall in the higher reaches, weather in Jammu and Kashmir is expected to remain cold, cloudy and generally dry till January 20.

The absence of a major snowfall in the Valley and the absence of this season's first snowfall in the plains have caused a lot of concern among the people, as the prospects of better fruit, agriculture and potable water in the hot summer months depend totally on a heavy winter snowfall.

What has added to the worries of Kashmiris is that the 40-day-long period of harsh winter cold, the 'Chillai Kalan', which started on December 21, will end on January 30.

If there is no major snowfall during the remaining period of the Chillai Kalan, then the snowfall in February and March is going to be of little significance.

The snowfall in February and March is not long-lasting, as it melts quickly without replenishing the perennial water reservoirs up in the mountains.

It is these perennial water reservoirs that sustain various water bodies in Jammu and Kashmir during the summer months.

The cold and dry weather in the Valley has been affecting the locals.

Chest and heart specialists have advised people with a history of chest and heart ailments to take extra precautions.

Elderly people and children have been advised not to venture out of their homes till 10 a.m. as the morning chill aggravates their condition.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
My relatives in Srinagar are really concerned. The dry cold is harsh on the elderly and children. The health advisory is crucial—please stay warm and avoid early morning outings if you can.
R
Rohit P
While the marginal improvement in temperature is a small relief, the bigger picture is alarming. No snow means trouble for summer crops and drinking water. Climate change is hitting home.
S
Sarah B
Visiting Gulmarg next month and was hoping for fresh powder. This report is a reality check. It's more than just a holiday; the local ecology and economy depend on it. Fingers crossed for some Western Disturbances!
V
Vikram M
The Met department's forecast till Jan 20 doesn't look promising. We need a proper white winter, not just cold and dry weather. The apple orchards in Shopian will suffer badly if this continues.
M
Michael C
A respectful critique: Articles like this are vital, but I wish there was more discussion on long-term water management strategies alongside weather reports. Relying solely on snowfall is risky in a changing climate.
K
Kavya N
Chillai Kalan is almost half over! Time is running out. Everyone back home is praying for snow. It's part of our life cycle there. No snow feels like the year

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