SRINAGAR: Kashmir experienced a second consecutive day of inclement weather on Monday, with the valley receiving widespread rains in the plains and snowfall in the higher reaches. Officials from the Meteorological Department (MeT) stated that this fresh spell of precipitation has significantly helped in reducing the rainfall deficit for the month of March.
Precipitation Levels and Future Forecast
Light to moderate rainfall affected most areas across the Kashmir Valley, while mountainous regions saw another bout of snowfall. This renewed precipitation has led to a notable reduction in the March precipitation deficit, bringing it down from 50 per cent to 45 per cent for Jammu and Kashmir. According to officials, the intensity of the current weather system is expected to remain moderate, although isolated areas might experience heavy rainfall.
The Meteorological Department has forecast the possibility of widespread rainfall or snowfall across the Union Territory for the next 24 hours. This continuous wet weather has prompted advisory for farmers. The MeT department has advised agricultural communities to suspend all farm operations until Tuesday to mitigate potential damage and risks associated with the prevailing conditions.
Looking ahead, the weather is projected to improve starting Tuesday. However, brief spells of rain are anticipated on April 1 and April 2. The MeT further indicated that from April 3 to April 7, isolated to scattered areas might witness light rain and snow. This extended period of variable weather underscores the dynamic nature of spring conditions in the region.
Impact on Deficit and Agricultural Advisories
The sustained rainfall and snowfall over the past two days have been a crucial factor in ameliorating the dry spell that had gripped Jammu and Kashmir. The reduction in the precipitation deficit, though still substantial, marks a positive development for water resources and soil moisture levels. These replenished reserves are vital for the upcoming agricultural season.
In response to the challenging weather conditions, the agricultural department has issued specific advisories. The directive to suspend farm operations is a precautionary measure aimed at protecting crops, livestock, and farm machinery from potential damage due to heavy rainfall, snowfall, and strong winds. Farmers are urged to monitor weather updates closely and resume activities only when conditions are deemed safe and favourable.
The prolonged precipitation is also expected to have implications for snowmelt in the higher altitudes, which will eventually contribute to the water levels in rivers and streams during the warmer months. While the immediate focus is on managing the current weather, the long-term impact on water availability is a significant consideration for the region.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
