October ends with severe rainfall deficit in J&K, Ladakh

Srinagar, Oct 31: Jammu and Kashmir, along with Ladakh, ended October with an alarming rainfall deficit, impacting water resources across the twin Union Territories (UTs) as rivers and streams show critically low levels.

According to the latest data by independent meteorologist Faizan Arif, Jammu and Kashmir registered a 74 percent deficit, while Ladakh recorded an even more severe shortfall of 89 percent.

This data comes as both UTs experience prolonged dry spells following a year marked by intense heatwaves and scarce monsoon showers.

The current year’s rainfall statistics according to data paint a stark picture, with Jammu and Kashmir receiving only 8.7 mm against a normal rainfall expectation of 33.1 mm.

According to him, the most severe deficits were observed in south Kashmir where rainfall ranged from 95 percent to 100 percent below normal.

Central Kashmir also faced similar conditions, with deficits spanning from 85 percent to 91 percent while the districts of Bandipora and Baramulla recorded respective deficits of 90 percent and 91 percent.

Kupwara was somewhat less impacted, yet still recorded a notable shortfall of 57 percent.

Districts like Doda, Jammu, and Kathua faced moderate deficits, with recorded figures between 32 percent and 45 percent.

The remainder of the districts, excluding Samba, reported deficits from 50 percent to 97 percent.

Remarkably, Samba stood out as an exception, receiving 250 percent more rainfall than normal, a rare anomaly in an otherwise dry season.

Ladakh’s condition remains equally troubling, with Kargil recording a complete 100 percent deficit and Leh following closely with an 88 percent shortfall.

Overall, Ladakh has reported an 89 percent deficit, which is expected to intensify challenges for the region, known for its harsh winters and limited water accessibility.

According to him, dry weather will persist for at least the next 10 days, with no signs of rain, and water levels in the already parched rivers and streams are likely to dip further, exacerbating concerns of water scarcity in the upcoming winter months.

This year’s erratic weather patterns have played a significant role in the deficit.

Unusually prolonged dry spells combined with intense heatwaves have led to a scarcity of rainfall during critical periods.

Summer months, which normally bring relief through intermittent showers, saw unprecedented heat, and the monsoon season was unusually dry.