Srinagar- Jammu and Kashmir is facing a severe rainfall deficit, with the region recording only 6.1 mm of precipitation between November 1 and December 9 against the normal 43.1 mm, indicating an 86 percent shortfall, official data shows.

The prolonged dry spell, which has persisted since early November, has begun to impact water systems. The Jhelum River at Sangam has slipped to minus 0.59 ft, falling below the zero-gauge level. Though not the lowest on record, it is among the lowest readings observed in recent years. With no major rain or snowfall expected over the next week, river levels may decline further.

The lack of precipitation has also increased vulnerability to forest fires in several districts, as surface heating, dry vegetation and depleted soil moisture have created favor

See Full Page