Jammu and Kashmir has been witnessing an unusually prolonged dry phase since November 05, with almost nil precipitation recorded across most parts of the region.
Between November 01 and December 09, J&K should have received an average of 43.1 mm of rainfall. However, only 6.1 mm has been recorded so far, resulting in a sharp 86% precipitation deficit.
The persistent dryness has now begun to reflect in river flows. The water level of Jhelum River at Sangam has slipped to –0.59 ft, dropping below the zero-gauge level. This does not yet represent the lowest level ever observed, however, it remains one of the lowest readings recorded for the river in recent years. With no major rain or snowfall forecast for the next seven days, the river’s levels could decline even further in the coming days.
The extended dry conditions have also significantly increased the risk of forest fires across many vulnerable zones of Jammu and Kashmir. The absence of moisture, coupled with dry vegetation and surface heating, has created favorable conditions for fire outbreaks.
