Seasonal rainfall deficit crosses 39 percent across J&K

Srinagar, Jan 01: Jammu and Kashmir has recorded an overall seasonal rainfall deficit of 39 percent during the ongoing winter period, with most districts of the Kashmir Valley witnessing significantly below-normal precipitation, according to official data released by the India Meteorological Department.

The IMD’s seasonal rainfall assessment for the period from October 1 to December 31, 2025 shows that the Union Territory received 77.5 millimetres of rainfall against a normal average of 127.7 millimetres. The data was issued by the Meteorological Centre, Srinagar.

District-wise figures indicate a pronounced rainfall deficiency across large parts of the Kashmir Valley. Srinagar recorded 53.8 millimetres of rainfall against a normal of 109.1 millimetres, reflecting a deficit of 51 percent. Baramulla received 56.2 millimetres compared to the normal 132.2 millimetres, while Budgam registered 32 millimetres against an expected 78.9 millimetres, placing both districts in the deficient category.

Shopian emerged as one of the worst-affected districts, reporting a sharp deficit of 78 percent with only 21.8 millimetres of rainfall against a normal of 100.4 millimetres. Kulgam recorded a deficit of 65 percent, Kishtwar 76 percent, and Kargil and Leh districts in Ladakh also witnessed extremely low precipitation levels. Other districts including Anantnag, Bandipore, Kupwara, Ganderbal and Pulwama remained below normal rainfall levels.

In contrast, Poonch district recorded above-normal rainfall with a surplus of 26 percent, while Rajouri remained close to normal levels. Some districts in the Jammu division, including Doda and Reasi, showed comparatively better rainfall distribution during the period.

Meteorological officials cautioned that sustained rainfall deficiency during the winter season could have implications for water availability, agriculture and horticulture in the coming months if normal precipitation patterns are not restored. [KNT]