Rains Return

Srinagar, Feb 25: Having survived one of the driest winters in decades, light rains lashed most parts of Kashmir on Tuesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for moderate to heavy rain over J&K, providing relief to people and farmers who have been struggling with depleting water resources and dry lands.

Kashmir, which usually witnesses heavy snowfall during the 40-day severe winter season of Chillai Kalan, witnessed abnormally dry weather this year.

January 2025 was recorded as one of the driest Chillai Kalans in recent years with minimal snowfall and below-normal rainfall.

The extended dry weather resulted in a drastic fall in water levels in rivers, streams, and springs, and forest fires engulfed several districts, including Kupwara, Baramulla, and Anantnag.

The absence of snow affected water availability and severely hurt the winter tourism business in the region.

The world-renowned ski resort of Gulmarg, which normally overflows with visitors at the peak of winter, reported a serious fall in visitors, forcing officials to reschedule the much-awaited Khelo India Winter Games.

MeT Department officials said they expect moderate to heavy snowfall in various areas of Jammu and Kashmir between February 25 and 28.

“Tonight, north and middle Kashmir will see the first wave of snowfall. On February 27 and 28, south Kashmir, Chenab Valley's higher reaches, and the Pir Panjal range will have major snowfall. Some places may even see very heavy snowfall,” they said.

The upcoming rains are likely to replenish essential water bodies like the River Jhelum and its tributaries, which had dwindled alarmingly due to the spell of dry weather.

Following the prediction, the Meteorological Department has instructed farmers to suspend farming activities, such as spraying fertilisers, until the weather improves.

The dry winter had already created fears regarding soil moisture content and the coming sowing season.

This rain is likely to fill up groundwater levels and give much-needed soil moisture to farmers getting ready for spring plantations.

Travellers intending to tour the area have also been urged to be careful and keep themselves informed about travel advisories.

Major tourist spots like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg are likely to see fresh snowfall, which can boost the winter tourism industry after a slow start.

“Jammu region will also see rain in the next few days. Passengers should take traffic advisories seriously, particularly in landslide-prone areas, such as the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway,” MeT officials said.