by Mudasir Rehman
Prayers and supplication are insufficient until actions align. As commanded in the Quran, “O mankind, your condition will not change until you change yourself,” emphasizing that human action must precede divine intervention.
The climate in Kashmir is shaped by a combination of atmospheric and oceanic factors. Among these influences, the subtropical westerly jet stream holds particular significance. Originating from the Mediterranean Sea, this high-altitude air current moves swiftly from west to east and plays a pivotal role in determining weather patterns in the region.
During the winter months, the subtropical western jet stream transports moist air from the Mediterranean Sea towards the Indian subcontinent. As this moisture-laden air encounters the Himalayas and Kashmir, orographic lifting, induced by the mountain range, forces condensation. The ascent of moist air results in cooling and condensation, ultimately leading to precipitation. In the context of Kashmir, this often manifests as snowfall in higher elevations.
The interaction between the subtropical western jet stream and the topography of the Himalayas significantly contributes to winter precipitation in the region. This precipitation holds crucial importance for water resources, agriculture, and the overall climate of Kashmir.
Understanding these atmospheric dynamics provides insight into the current weather conditions in Kashmir, shedding light on the factors influencing the ongoing situation.
The impact of global climate change on Western nations is marked by the consequences of heightened greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, are primary contributors to this phenomenon, resulting in a warming of the Earth’s surface and shifts in climate patterns.
In regions with significant industrialisation and notable greenhouse gas emissions, including many Western nations, the warming of the planet influences the behaviour of jet streams. Specifically, alterations in the subtropical westerly jet streams can be observed. These changes have the potential to impact the trajectory and intensity of these jet streams, which, in turn, play a key role in shaping the weather patterns in Kashmir.
The modified patterns of jet streams may lead to variations in the timing, distribution, and intensity of precipitation in the region. Consequently, this has implications for the occurrence of snowfall in Kashmir, with potential repercussions on water resources and agricultural activities. It is noteworthy that any disruption in jet streams due to climate changes can result in the formation of an Omega Block. Understanding these connections is vital for comprehending the broader implications of global climate change on specific regional climates.
An Omega block refers to a specific atmospheric pattern characterised by a high-pressure system that shapes the jet stream into the form of the Greek letter Omega (Ω). This pattern typically occurs when the jet stream takes on a meandering structure, featuring a northward-extending ridge of high pressure and flanked by two troughs of low pressure.
The distinctive feature of an Omega block lies in its prolonged duration, often lasting for several days or even weeks. This pattern can have significant repercussions on local weather conditions by trapping pressure and heat, potentially disrupting normal weather patterns.
In the context of the Kashmir region, the formation of an Omega block implies the establishment of a high-pressure ridge over the area. This pattern acts as a barrier, confining air masses within its structure. The consequence is the accumulation of heat and pressure under the high-pressure system. As the ridge persists, it hampers the regular movement of weather systems. The trapped heat and pressure contribute to the development of warmer conditions in the affected area, potentially resulting in prolonged periods of elevated temperatures.
In Kashmir, the impact of an Omega block could translate into reduced rainfall or snowfall, with implications for water resources, agriculture, and various aspects of the local climate. Understanding the characteristics and effects of an Omega block is crucial for assessing its potential influence on the weather dynamics in the region.
El Niño and Its Impact on Kashmir’s Climate
El Niño is a climatic phenomenon characterised by periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, with global implications for weather patterns. During El Niño events, disruptions in atmospheric circulation patterns influence the behaviour of jet streams worldwide. This can result in alterations to precipitation patterns in various regions, including Kashmir.
El Niño typically brings drier and warmer conditions to certain parts of the world, potentially affecting the regular winter precipitation in Kashmir. The reduced snowfall can have consequences for the region’s water resources, agriculture, and overall climate dynamics.
In conclusion, the global impact of the West’s pollution on the environment is undeniable, and the consequences of environmental degradation are a shared responsibility that transcends geographical boundaries. A collective awakening is imperative, recognising that showing mercy towards nature is not only a moral duty but a survival strategy for the entire planet.
Instead of avoiding the harsh reality of the environmental crisis, we must confront it directly, fostering a global commitment to sustainable practices, responsible resource management, and the protection of our shared home. The future of our planet hinges on our ability to exhibit mercy towards nature and collectively strive for harmonious coexistence with the environment. Prayers and supplication are insufficient until actions align. As commanded in the Quran, “O mankind, your condition will not change until you change yourself,” emphasising that human action must precede divine intervention.
(The author is a research scholar in Education with a Master’s in Political Science. Ideas are personal.)
