No significant weather activity expected until February 18: MeT

Srinagar, February 13: Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing an unusually dry winter, with no significant weather activity expected until February 18, according to the latest forecast. The prolonged dry spell has led to a massive precipitation deficit, raising concerns about water availability and agricultural impact in the coming months.

Over the past 24 hours, daytime temperatures have risen by 3-4°C in many parts of J&K. The highest recorded temperatures were in Jammu (24.5°C) in the Jammu division. In Kashmir, Srinagar and Kupwara saw temperatures of 13.2°C and 10.5°C, respectively.

In contrast, nighttime temperatures have decreased by 1-2°C in several parts of the region. The highest minimum temperatures were recorded in Katra (7.9°C) and Kathua (7.0°C) in the Jammu division. While in Kashmir, Kokernag recorded -0.8°C. Some areas also witnessed a drop in night temperatures, with Gulmarg at -7.5°C, Pahalgam at -3.6°C, and Sonamarg at -8.8°C.

The Meteorological Department has predicted generally cloudy skies on February 19 and 20, with light rain and snowfall expected at higher reaches across the region. However, no major system is in sight that could bring widespread precipitation.

J&K has recorded an alarming shortfall in precipitation from January 1 to February 13. Kashmir Division has seen a 79% large deficit, meaning significantly less snowfall and rainfall than usual. While as Jammu Division has experienced an even steeper 84% large deficit, which could impact water supply and reservoir levels.