Srinagar, Feb 08: January 2024 marked one of the driest and warmest Januarys in the past 43 years for Jammu and Kashmir, with most stations across the region reporting significantly high temperatures and minimal precipitation. Srinagar city recorded its second driest January, with a mere 3.0 mm of precipitation for the entire month.
According to Director MeT, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, January 2024 witnessed remarkably high temperatures and scant rainfall, except for the plains of Jammu. Srinagar recorded a mean maximum temperature of 11.9°C, while Gulmarg and Banihal reported 5.7°C and 16.9°C respectively, the highest mean maximum temperatures in four decades.
The precipitation data for January 2024 compared to previous years reveals a stark contrast, with Srinagar experiencing one of its driest months on record. Similarly, Jammu, Gulmarg, and Banihal also recorded significantly lower precipitation compared to previous years.
This year’s unusually prolonged dry spell during Chillai Kalan, which lasted from November to January 29, has raised concerns about its impact on glacier melt and summer water supply. Dr. Irfan Rashid, Senior Assistant Professor at the Department of Geoinformatics, University of Kashmir, highlighted the potential consequences of the depleted snowfall on glacier melt and the economy.
Dr. Irfan emphasized that the reduced snowfall could lead to early snowmelt, exposing glacier surfaces to summer heat earlier than usual, thereby exacerbating ice loss. He warned of serious implications for sectors reliant on snow and glacier melt, such as agriculture and hydropower generation.
The meteorological department forecasts mainly dry weather until February 17, with occasional cloudiness towards evening on February 14. However, there is a possibility of light snow and rain from February 18-20.
The dry spell and its impact on glacier melt and water supply underscore the importance of monitoring and addressing climate-related challenges in the region.
Key Highlights:
Kashmir experiences driest and warmest January in 43 years.
Srinagar records second driest January with minimal precipitation.
High temperatures and minimal rainfall raise concerns over glacier melt and water supply.
Meteorological department forecasts mainly dry weather until February 17, with a possibility of light snow and rain from February 18-20.
