Weak winter rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir threatens summer water supply

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has already cautioned residents of the Union Territory about the impending water shortages. The scarcity of winter precipitation impacts river basins and glaciers, which rely on winter snow to recharge ahead of the warmer season. The region’s fragile hydrological system depends heavily on these winter rainfalls and snowfalls to maintain river flows and supply the region’s agricultural and domestic water needs.

January saw a modest 21.4 mm of rain in Srinagar, but February has been largely dry. In contrast, Jammu recorded an even more alarming shortfall, with only 12.9 mm of rain so far this year, an 89 per cent deficit from normal levels. The current weather systems affecting the region have been too weak to bring significant precipitation.

Looking ahead, the IMD has forecast some relief in the form of moderate rain and snow over Jammu and Kashmir between February 25 and 27. However, the significant shortfall in winter precipitation already accumulated this year suggests that the region could face a difficult summer. Without sufficient winter rainfall, the risk of a water crisis looms large for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.