SRINAGAR: The Meteorological Department has reported a substantial rainfall deficit across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh for November, with the region receiving only 10.9 mm of rainfall against the normal average of 35.3 mm.
Kathua district recorded the most severe shortfall, with no rainfall registered during the month despite an average expectation of 28.0 mm. Poonch followed closely, with rainfall nearly absent compared to the usual levels. Budgam also experienced a stark shortfall, with 14.9 mm of rainfall recorded against a normal of 30.1 mm.
Srinagar and Jammu districts were similarly affected, with rainfall levels significantly below normal. However, there were some exceptions to the overall deficit. Samba district recorded higher-than-average rainfall, with 12.5 mm compared to the usual 8.1 mm, while the Kupwara district experienced near-normal rainfall patterns, recording 48.1 mm against an average of 49.8 mm.
The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar emphasised the impact of this deficit on water resources and agricultural activities, particularly in areas like Kathua and Poonch. Experts suggest monitoring for further trends in precipitation as winter approaches.
This significant deficit highlights the growing unpredictability of weather patterns in the region, underscoring the need for adaptive planning in agriculture and water management. (With KINS input)
