Heavy Snowfall in Higher Regions of Kashmir as Rain Hits J&K
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On March 3, Jammu and Kashmir saw rainfall in the plains and fresh snowfall in the higher reaches. The Meteorological office forecasts continued precipitation and has noted improved water levels in local bodies, easing drought concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Jammu and Kashmir received fresh snowfall in higher regions.
- Rainfall has alleviated drought fears.
- Water levels in rivers and springs have improved.
- Predictions of more rain and snow are on the horizon.
- Local authorities are providing water to affected areas.
Srinagar, March 3 (NationPress) While the plains experienced substantial rainfall, the elevated areas in Jammu and Kashmir received new snowfall on Monday. The Meteorological (MeT) office has predicted light to moderate rain and snow in the higher elevations on Monday, noting that certain areas in northern and central Kashmir may face moderate to heavy snowfall.
The weather is anticipated to remain predominantly dry from March 4 to March 9, with another bout of rain and snow expected between March 10 and March 12.
The recent rain and snow over the past week have alleviated concerns of a prolonged dry spell leading to drought in the union territory this year.
Water levels in rivers, streams, lakes, springs, and various water bodies have significantly improved. Some springs that had dried up due to a lengthy dry period of 50 days in January and February have once again started to flow.
The weather troubles began when Kashmir experienced only one major snowfall during the 40-day period of harsh winter known as ‘Chillai Kalan,’ which commences each year on December 21 and concludes on January 30.
This snowfall during the intense winter period is crucial for replenishing the perennial water reservoirs in the mountains, providing ample water, including drinking supplies, to the valley’s population.
All water bodies in Jammu and Kashmir rely on these perennial reservoirs during the hot summer months. Insufficient snowfall in winter typically signals a dry summer, making water scarce for both drinking and agricultural irrigation.
The local Jal Shakti department has begun supplying drinking water to regions where springs have dried up due to the harsh winter.
On Monday, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 4.9 degrees Celsius, while Gulmarg and Pahalgam saw minimums of minus 4.3 degrees and minus 0.8 degrees respectively. In Jammu, the city registered a minimum of 12.4 degrees, with other areas like Katra at 7.8 degrees, Batote at 4.7, Banihal at 3.6, and Bhaderwah at 3.4 degrees.
