 Early Times Report
SRINAGAR, Feb 22: Jammu and Kashmir experienced a significant rise in day and night temperatures over the past 24 hours, with dry weather conditions prevailing across the Union Territory.
According to the Meteorological Department, daytime temperatures surged by 5-9°C in many parts of Jammu, with Jammu 24.0 °C recording the highest closely followed by Kathua recording 23.8° and Katra 20 °C.
In Kashmir, temperatures also saw a rise of 3-8°C, with Kupwara at 13.5°C, and Pahalgam at 7.4°C recording the highest figures.
Night temperatures saw a marginal increase of 1-4°C across scattered parts of the Union Territory.
However, the ski resort of Gulmarg remained the coldest with a minimum of -5.5°C, followed by Pahalgam at -2.3°C.
The weather department on Saturday predicted mainly dry conditions for the next 24 hours, with no major changes expected in the coming two days.
However, from February 25, isolated spells of heavy rain and snow for the next three days could disrupt surface traffic in parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Three days ago, the Kashmir Valley experienced much-needed rainfall in the plains, while the higher reaches recorded fresh snowfall after an extended dry spell.
However, despite this brief spell of precipitation, experts warn that Jammu and Kashmir is on the brink of a severe water crisis due to a persistent and alarming precipitation deficit. The region has recorded an over 80% shortfall in precipitation, raising serious concerns about water availability in the coming months.
Taking a note of the looming water scarcity, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently called for a more proactive approach and collective efforts towards water management and conservation. |
