SRINAGAR DEC 31: Jammu and Kashmir has experienced a notable rainfall deficit during the ongoing post-monsoon and early winter season, with most districts recording below-normal precipitation, according to data released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Between October 1 and December 24, the J&K Meteorological subdivision received 77.4 mm of rainfall against a normal of 107.5 mm, marking a 28% shortfall. As per the IMD classification, the region falls under the “Deficient” category.
The deficit is most severe in several districts of Kashmir and Ladakh. Shopian (75%), Kargil (73%), Kishtwar (71%), Leh (68%), and Kulgam (60%) recorded some of the sharpest shortfalls, placing them in the “Large Deficient” category.
Other districts also reported significantly lower rainfall, including Budgam (54%), Baramulla (48%), Pulwama (48%), Srinagar (42%), Ganderbal (41%), Anantnag (28%), and Bandipora (23%). In the Jammu division, Udhampur (24%) and Ramban (17%) also reported notable deficits.
In contrast, a few districts recorded normal to excess rainfall. Kupwara (–14%), Kathua (–1%), Jammu (+4%), Reasi (+8%), Doda (+9%), and Samba (+14%) remained within the normal range. Only Rajouri (+21%) and Poonch (+36%) fell into the “Excess” rainfall category.
Meteorological officials said the widespread shortfall indicates a markedly dry post-monsoon and early winter season, which could affect water resources, groundwater recharge, and rabi crop cultivation across the Union Territory.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, said cloudy conditions are expected to persist, with light snowfall over higher reaches and rain in the plains from Tuesday evening.
“Another weather system on Wednesday is likely to bring snowfall to the higher regions of north and central Kashmir and light rains in some southern areas,” he said.
Light snowfall is also expected in north and central Kashmir between December 31 and January 1, followed by rain in Srinagar and neighbouring districts.
From January 2 onwards, the weather is forecast to remain mostly dry until mid-January, with no major weather system likely to affect the region. Foggy conditions may persist for a few more days but are expected to ease with improved air quality.
“Cold conditions are likely to intensify in the coming days,” Dr. Ahmad added.
