J&K records lowest rainfall in 50 years

Srinagar, Jan 10: Jammu and Kashmir witnessed its driest year in half a century in 2024, with rainfall levels plunging to just 870.9 mm, a sharp 29 percent deficit compared to the annual average of 1232.3 mm.

This marks the fifth consecutive year of below-normal precipitation in the region, amplifying concerns over water scarcity and its cascading effects on agriculture, hydropower, and daily life.

This was revealed by independent weatherman Faizan Arif in a survey.

The downward spiral in precipitation has been a consistent trend.

In 2023, the region received 1146.6 mm of rainfall (7 percent below average), while 2022 recorded 1040.4 mm (16 percent deficit).

The figures dropped further in 2021 to 892.5 mm (28 percent deficit) and 982.2 mm (20 percent deficit) in 2020.

The data indicates a worsening trajectory, with 2024’s precipitation levels approaching the record low of 802.5 mm from 1974.

This prolonged deficit has left rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater sources under stress, while farmers and residents face increasing challenges due to reduced water availability.

2024 Monthly Breakdown

A closer examination of 2024’s rainfall patterns reveals the severity of the dry spell.

The year began with a staggering 91 percent shortfall in January, followed by deficits of 17 percent in February and 16 percent in March.

While April witnessed a temporary respite with a 48 percent surplus, the months that followed were largely deficit-laden with May 67 percent deficit, June 38 percent deficit, July 36 percent deficit, August 2 percent deficit, and September to December deficits ranged from 41 percent to as high as 74 percent with October recording the steepest shortfall.

Impact on Key Sectors

Agriculture, the backbone of J&K’s economy has borne the brunt of dwindling rainfall.

Paddy cultivation, a major agricultural activity in J&K, relies heavily on timely monsoon rains.

Farmers across Kashmir and Jammu plains have reported lower crop yields, forcing many to tap into already-stressed groundwater resources for irrigation.

J&K’s hydropower sector, which supplies electricity not only locally but also to northern states, is also feeling the pinch.

Low water levels in rivers like the Jhelum, Chenab, and Ravi have affected power generation capacities, potentially impacting energy availability and revenues.

Urban and rural areas alike are reporting reduced drinking water supplies.

Srinagar and remote villages in Kupwara and Kishtwar are increasingly reliant on tanker supplies as natural water sources run dry.

The prolonged dry spells are also impacting the fragile ecosystems of J&K.

Wetlands, including the famous Hokersar and Wular Lake, are shrinking, while forests are becoming more prone to wildfires.