SRINAGAR: After enduring an extended period of dry weather, Jammu and Kashmir has finally witnessed a spell of rain and snow, bringing much-needed relief. The overall precipitation shortfall has decreased from 80% to 65%, alleviating concerns across the region.
According to the Meteorological Department, more precipitation is expected in the coming days. From February 27 to March 6, above-normal rainfall and snowfall are predicted, while near-normal precipitation is expected between March 6 and March 13.
Despite the improvement, weather experts caution that the recent wet spell is not enough to fully compensate for the severe moisture deficit since December 2023.
Impact on Agriculture and Water Supply
The prolonged dry conditions had alarmed farmers, especially apple growers, who depend on snowfall to replenish soil moisture and groundwater. Farmers in Shopian, Pulwama, and Kulgam had voiced fears over potential crop damage due to insufficient snow.
The dry conditions also lowered water levels in rivers and streams, raising concerns about drinking water shortages and reduced hydroelectric power generation in the summer. The recent rainfall and snowfall have partially eased these fears.
Tourism Industry Revives
Kashmirโs tourism sector, heavily dependent on winter snowfall, had taken a hit as major destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam received less-than-expected snow. The fresh snowfall, however, has rejuvenated hopes for the industry.
Gulmarg, a premier winter sports hub, recorded 20 cm of fresh snow, boosting winter tourism. However, the snowfall also disrupted road connectivity, affecting accessibility to high-altitude regions.
Transport Disruptions and Avalanche Warnings
The snowfall led to temporary closure of the Srinagar-Leh National Highway due to nearly two feet of snow at Zojila Pass. Sonamarg also received over a foot of snow, adding to travel difficulties.
The Jammu-Srinagar Expressway (NH-44) has been obstructed due to thick snow deposits between Ramsoo and Qazigund, while rockslides, landslips, and slush flows between Nashri and the NAVYUG Tunnel have further worsened travel conditions.
The Batote-Doda route is also inaccessible after a landslide at Ragi Nalla. Several other roads, including the SSG Highway, Bhaderwah-Chamba Route, Mughal Pathway, and Sinthan Pass, remain closed.
Meanwhile, severe weather has disrupted air and rail movement across Kashmir, leading to delays in all morning departures at Srinagar International Airport. Train operations have been partially impacted, with the Budgam-Banihal stretch running as scheduled, while services on the Baramulla route remain delayed due to heavy snowfall.
Rainfall and Temperature Drop
Alongside snowfall, several areas in J&K witnessed heavy rainfall, leading to a sharp dip in temperatures. Nowgam and Handwara recorded the highest rainfall at 46.6 mm, while Sopore, Bandipora, and Tangmarg also received significant precipitation.
With schools in Kashmir set to reopen on March 1, the government is considering an extension of winter vacations for primary and upper primary classes due to the ongoing cold weather and snowfall.
Authorities have issued warnings for landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones, particularly in Jammu and the Pir Panjal region. Travelers have been advised to remain cautious as certain roads remain hazardous.
Upcoming Weather Forecast
According to officials, light to moderate snowfall and rain will continue across Kashmir and Jammu divisions until February 28, with isolated heavy snowfall in some areas. A slight improvement is expected from February 28 afternoon.
From March 1 to 2, cloudy skies with light rain and snow at scattered locations are likely, while moderate precipitation is anticipated on March 3. Between March 4 and 8, the weather is expected to remain largely dry.
Authorities have reiterated warnings about landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones, especially in vulnerable areas, and urged travelers to exercise caution.
While the recent snowfall and rain have reduced the moisture deficit, the region still faces challenges in agriculture, water supply, and infrastructure. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the trend of increased precipitation continues.
Farmers, hoteliers, and residents remain hopeful that the wet spell will ease water shortages and rejuvenate Kashmirโs tourism and agricultural sector.ย
