Srinagar, Feb 17 : Jammu and Kashmir is likely to remain under a dry spell for the rest of the month, with no significant rainfall or snowfall expected, according to weather forecasts. Officials said the prolonged dry phase could deepen the seasonal precipitation deficit across the region.
According to Kashmir Weather’s Faizan Arif, day temperatures are expected to remain above normal, with the ongoing warm spell potentially challenging a few late-winter temperature records. The rise in warmth is also likely to trigger early blooming of trees in several areas.
Meteorologists have cautioned that early blooms could be vulnerable if sudden cold conditions return due to fresh Western Disturbances in March. Late frost or sudden temperature dips during the blossom phase could affect flowers and fruit-bearing trees, posing risks to horticulture.
Experts also noted that higher temperatures may accelerate the melting of glaciers and snowpacks, temporarily increasing river and spring flows. While this may provide short-term relief, continued dry conditions into March could negatively impact paddy cultivation if water discharge decreases during the pre-sowing phase.
Weather analysts emphasized that the combination of unseasonal warmth and prolonged dry conditions requires close monitoring to mitigate potential agricultural losses.(KNS).
