Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) continues to experience intense cold conditions, with the Meteorological Department forecasting light rain and snowfall across the region during the next 24 hours. Winter has fully set in, and as the weather system approaches, it’s expected to impact the plains of Jammu division and the higher reaches of the Valley. This forecast could potentially offer some relief to the lengthy dry spell, which has raised alarms among local farmers and orchardists.
According to the IMD, light rain is anticipated to fall on the plains of Jammu division, with snowfall expected to grace the higher elevations of the Valley, including its popular hill stations. Yet, there’s no promise of significant precipitation, and this has become increasingly concerning, particularly due to its looming effects on agricultural productivity.
Farmers and orchardists are worried about insufficient rainfall, which could drastically affect the upcoming Rani crop and apple production expected to take place in 2025—both of which are pivotal to the local economy. Many locals rely on the substantial snow blanket during the 'Chillai Kalan'—a 40-day period marking the height of winter—believing it to be the key to the seasonal replenishment of water reservoirs. Without enough snow, there’s potential for severe shortages of water during the warm summer months.
On the morning of December 27, temperatures plummeted across the region. Srinagar reported lows of -7.3°C, Gulmarg dipped to -6°C, and Pahalgam saw chilling temperatures hit -8°C. By comparison, Jammu city remained more temperate at 8°C, though other parts of the Jammu region reported lows ranging between -1.8°C and 7.4°C.
These frigid conditions during the 'Chillai Kalan' are significant as they’re traditionally characterized by heavy snowfall, which replenishes key water sources across the region. The continued lack of snow raises pressing concerns about possible water shortages following the winter months, emphasizing the region's reliance on these weather patterns to sustain its fragile ecological balance.
The persistence of dry cold weather also poses serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children. Extreme cold, paired with below-freezing daytime temperatures, can lead to frostbite and other health complications. Doctors have issued strong warnings, advising families to keep their children and the elderly bundled up to prevent hypothermia and chest-related illnesses.
The people of Jammu and Kashmir have developed cultural practices to withstand these extreme winter conditions. Locals often dress warmly, donning traditional garments like the "Pheran," a loose tweed overcoat, and many carry “Kangris”—earthen firepots woven within willow baskets—for drinking warmth. These practices not only offer physical warmth but also hold cultural significance, symbolizing resilience against the harsh climate.
While the forecasted light rains and potential snow may offer some respite from the dry spell, the current weather patterns and prolonged cold remind residents of the fragility of their environment. The importance of snowfall to sustain water supplies for agriculture and domestic use cannot be underestimated. A snowless winter would wreak havoc on both the agricultural output and the local economy, leading to water shortages during the critically dry months.
With all these varying elements intertwined, it's clear how deeply the climate conditions affect life and livelihood in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the urgent need for adequate rainfall and snow this winter to maintain not just the ecological balance but also the health of the local agricultural economy.
