Kashmir Faces Extreme Cold and Rainfall Deficit

Gulmarg, a popular tourist spot in Kashmir, had a very cold night with temperatures dropping to minus 8.8 degrees Celsius, the coldest night of the winter so far.

Other places in Kashmir like Srinagar, Pahalgam, Qazigund, Kokernag, and Kupwara also had very cold nights with temperatures below zero.

The region is going through a 40-day period called 'Chilla-e-Kalan', which is known for extreme cold and frequent snowfall.

However, the plains of the valley have not received any snowfall yet this season.

The weather department predicts light rain or snow in some higher areas of north and central Kashmir on January 5 and 6.

Additionally, large parts of Jammu and Kashmir recorded a significant rainfall deficit during the current winter season, raising concerns over soil moisture, water availability, and the impact on crop growth.

The lack of sustained western disturbances has led to the prolonged dry spell, which could have serious implications for agriculture, horticulture, and groundwater recharge.

Farmers are worried about the production of saffron and apples due to the lack of precipitation.