SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has recorded a 79 percent rainfall deficit since January, with all districts experiencing a large deficiency in precipitation. The highest shortfall was in Kathua, which recorded a 97 percent deficiency from January 1 to February 12, 2025.
According to data, JK received only 29.8 mm of rainfall during this period, compared to the normal 140 mm.
Among the districts, Jammu recorded a 94 percent deficit, while Udhampur and Samba reported a 92 percent deficiency each.
Srinagar, the summer capital, saw an 82 percent rainfall deficit, while seven districts—Shopian, Reasi, Ramban, Kulgam, Doda, Budgam, and Anantnag—reported a shortfall between 80 percent and 89 percent.
Pulwama, Kupwara, Bandipora, and Baramulla experienced a deficit between 70 percent and 79 percent, while Poonch, Rajouri, Kishtwar, and Ganderbal recorded a 60 percent to 69 percent deficiency.
With all districts categorised under large deficiency, the Meteorological Department has predicted continued dry weather.
According to Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department, dry weather is expected until February 15. On February 16, the weather will be partly to generally cloudy, with light rain and snow expected at isolated higher reaches of north and central Kashmir, mainly in the evening and night.
On February 17-18, the weather will remain partly to generally cloudy, with a possibility of brief spells of light rain and snow in isolated higher reaches. No significant weather activity is expected until February 18.
For February 19-20, generally cloudy weather is expected, with light rain and snow at scattered places, particularly during the night of February 19 and into the afternoon of February 20.
On February 21-22, partly cloudy weather is expected, with light rain and snow possible at isolated places. (KNO)
