Srinagar, February 21 (). Srinagar recorded the highest maximum temperature so far in the month of February on Saturday. On this day the mercury reached 21 degrees Celsius.
According to the weather department, this is the highest maximum temperature ever recorded in the city during February. Earlier on February 24, 2016, a temperature of 20.6 degrees Celsius was recorded.
The temperature recorded on Saturday was about 10 degrees above normal, which is quite different from the seasonal average. Relatively higher temperatures were also recorded in other parts of the Kashmir Valley. The maximum temperature was 11.5 degrees Celsius in Gulmarg and 17.2 degrees Celsius in Pahalgam.
The temperature in Jammu region was also recorded above normal. The maximum temperature in Jammu city was 25.2 degrees Celsius, which is 2.9 degrees above normal. The temperature was recorded at 25 degrees in Katra, 19.9 degrees in Batote, 19.8 degrees in Banihal and 21.3 degrees Celsius in Bhaderwah.
Jammu and Kashmir has received below average rainfall and snowfall during the current winter season. Higher than normal temperatures in February have increased the concerns of farmers, agricultural experts and gardeners. Due to less rainfall in winter, there is a possibility of drinking water crisis and shortage of irrigation water in summer.
The situation is also considered serious because this time there was no expected snowfall during the 40-day harsh winter known as ‘Chillai Kalan’ (which lasts from December 21 to January 30 every year). Normally heavy snowfall during this period fills glaciers and mountain water sources, maintaining water supplies throughout the summer. However, snowfall this time has been limited and occurred mostly towards the end of the period, raising concerns over water availability.
Due to the unexpected increase in temperature in February, the possibility of heavy snowfall in the coming days is considered less. March is now seen as a critical period when potential snowfall can help replenish mountain water reserves ahead of the summer season.
—
ASH/DKP