Daijiworld Media Network- Srinagar

Srinagar, Feb 28: Heavy rain and snowfall over the last 24 hours have ended a prolonged dry spell in Jammu and Kashmir, providing much-needed relief to residents who feared a drought-like situation. The Meteorological (MeT) Department has predicted further precipitation over the next 24 hours.

Srinagar city recorded 3.4 cm of snowfall, while popular tourist destinations Gulmarg and Pahalgam received 60 cm and 23 cm, respectively. Jammu city witnessed 77.4 mm of rainfall, with Banihal recording 100.4 mm, Batote 163.7 mm, Katra 118.6 mm, and Bhaderwah 72 mm.

Minimum temperatures remained low across the region, with Srinagar at 0°C, Gulmarg at -2°C, and Pahalgam at -0.4°C. In Jammu division, Jammu city recorded 11.2°C, Katra 8.8°C, Batote and Banihal at 0°C, while Bhaderwah registered -0.2°C.

Jammu and Kashmir had recorded an 83% rainfall deficit from January to February 26. However, the recent heavy downpour has reduced the deficit to 65%. The region’s rivers, lakes, and springs—critical water sources—depend on snowfall to replenish higher-altitude reservoirs.

The lack of significant snowfall during Chillai Kalan, the harshest winter period from December 21 to January 30, had raised concerns among farmers, fruit growers, and the general public. With only one major snowfall recorded on December 28, followed by an extended dry spell in January and February, many water bodies, including the historic Achabal spring in Anantnag, had nearly dried up.

The recent rain and snow have revived these springs, bringing relief to local communities. Farmers and orchard owners, who depend on snowfall for a steady water supply, now have renewed hopes for a favorable agricultural season.