SRINAGAR: For the past five consecutive years, Jammu and Kashmir has experienced an unprecedented rainfall deficit, with 2024 emerging as the driest year in the last 50 years.
Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng said that 2024 recorded the lowest rainfall in five decades, approaching the previous low of 802.5 mm registered in 1974.
In 2024, precipitation levels dropped to just 870.9 mm against the normal annual average of 1232.3 mm—a significant deficit of 29 percent.
Faizan said that 2024 marked the fifth consecutive year of below-normal precipitation in the Union Territory.
In 2023, rainfall was recorded at 1146.6 mm, marking a 7 percent deficit, while 2022 saw 1040.4 mm of rainfall, reflecting a 16 percent deficit. In 2021, precipitation stood at 892.5 mm, with a 28 percent shortfall, and 2020 witnessed 982.2 mm, showing a 20 percent deficit.
“The region’s precipitation levels continue to dwindle,” Keng observed.
Providing monthly data for 2024, Keng noted that January saw a staggering 91 percent shortfall, while February and March recorded deficits of 17 percent and 16 percent, respectively.
Although April provided some respite with a 48 percent surplus, it was the only month to witness excess rainfall.
“Deficits resumed from May, with shortfalls of 67 percent in May, 38 percent in June, 36 percent in July, and 2 percent in August. The situation worsened toward the year-end, with deficits of 41 percent in September, 74 percent in October, 69 percent in November, and 58 percent in December,” Keng added.
The impact of these deficits is already evident in reduced water availability for agriculture, hydropower, and drinking purposes, raising alarms among policymakers and residents.
The declining rainfall highlights the urgent need for climate adaptation measures and comprehensive water management strategies to mitigate the effects of prolonged dry spells in Jammu and Kashmir.
Jhelum River, the lifeline of Kashmir, is witnessing one of its lowest water levels ever, exacerbating concerns over the growing impact of climate change on the region.
Currently, the Jhelum at Sangam point is flowing at a distressing -0.75 feet, while at Ram Munshi Bagh, the water level stands at 3.73 feet, and at Asham, it is at 1.08 feet. (KNO)
