The dry winter has ended with chilly nights and warmer-than-usual days, with Srinagar reaching a maximum temperature of 14.2 degrees Celsius. Gulmarg, one of Kashmir’s key winter tourism destinations, has been snowless this season, resulting in a drop in visitor numbers and a significant impact on ski resort revenue. According to government data, 95,989 tourists, including 547 foreigners, visited Gulmarg in January of last year, with numbers for the first half of this month yet to be available.

Until mid-January 2024, it has been a dry winter with a lack of precipitation. Until mid-January 2024, it has been dry weather with a lack of precipitation. November had an 80% shortfall, December had a 79% shortfall, and January started with a 100% shortfall.  Jammu, the union territory’s winter capital, was colder than Srinagar.

Also read: Places to visit Manali to Leh

Introducing Alarming Consequences On People And Ecosystems Due To Dry Winter

Previously, the winter season in Jammu and Kashmir lasted from October to March, but it is currently only December and January. Kashmir has been experiencing an extended dry winter, with a 79% rainfall deficit recorded for December and no precipitation in the first week of January. Most plain parts of Kashmir have experienced no snowfall, while the upper reaches of the valley have gotten less snow than usual.

The forecasting agency has expected mostly dry weather until January 31. This can be defined as weather change and global warming, which are being observed worldwide. Precipitation is also changing, from snow to rain. Snowfall in Kashmir is more than simply a tourist attraction. It is important to the region’s weather, winter crops and cultivation, the supply of water in streams and rivers, and the economy.

In Kashmir, the winter is usually divided into three parts. The first is Chillai Kalan, the coldest 40-day period of winter that begins in late December and causes severe temperature drops. The odds of snowfall are at their maximum during this phase, particularly in the upper areas, which receive a lot of snow. The most severe phase is followed by 20 days of Chillai Khurd, or small winter, and 10 days of Chille Bachi (baby winter).

Dry Winters In Other Regions

A similar situation has also been reported in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. There has been no rain in Mandi and Chamoli districts since November 17, 2022. Famous tourist spots recognized for international ski contests are experiencing a serious snow shortage. The Annapurna range’s higher altitude sections also have comparable stories to tell. The sole exception was Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh, which received 32% more rainfall over the week. The delayed snowfall and weaker Western disturbance would cause a hydroecology crisis, resulting in a poorer winter crop. The output of crops will suffer even if precipitation is expected to be plentiful in the following days, as it is now too late. He also blames it on weather change.

Reasons for Dry Winter in Kashmir

Many factors can contribute to a dry winter in Kashmir or any other region. While individual circumstances might vary, these are some basic reasons for a dry winter:

Lack of Precipitation

Insufficient rainfall or snowfall during the winter season might result in dry conditions. Climate changes, such as the absence of large moisture-laden atmospheric masses, can help reduce the quantity of precipitation.

Changing Climate Patterns

Climate change can disrupt traditional weather patterns, causing fluctuations in temperature, precipitation, and other meteorological phenomena. Global climate change may cause exceptional weather phenomena, such as drier winters.

Also read: Causes and Effects of Climate Change

Regional Geography

Regional weather patterns can be influenced by an area’s natural features, such as mountains or major bodies of water. For example, if the regular sources of precipitation are not there or if mountain ranges cast rain shadows, a dry winter may occur.

Atmospheric Circulation Patterns

Changes in atmospheric circulation can influence weather conditions. Variations in pressure systems, such as the presence of high- or low-pressure areas, can influence the movement and distribution of air masses, resulting in precipitation.

Local Weather Systems

Certain weather systems, such as anticyclones or high-pressure systems, might prevent cloud formation and precipitation. These circumstances may last for an extended period, resulting in dry, clear winter weather.

Human Activities

Human activities such as deforestation and urbanization can cause changes in local climatic patterns. Changes in land use, as well as the introduction of impermeable surfaces, can have an impact on the water cycle and contribute to drought.

Conclusion

Understanding the particular reasons for a dry winter in Kashmir requires a thorough examination of local weather reports, climate patterns, and regional factors. So far, the most evident indicator has been a dry winter and snowless mountains in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. By taking quick action to address climate change, we may avoid experiencing the worst impacts. Similarly, as the world chooses less polluted, more sustainable energy possibilities, there could be millions of new jobs produced and billions of dollars in economic benefits.

© Ruchie Verma.

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