New Delhi, February 21: Srinagar has recorded its highest maximum temperature for February this past Saturday, reaching 21 degrees Celsius. According to the meteorological department, this marks the highest temperature recorded in the city during this month. The previous record was 20.6 degrees Celsius on February 24, 2016.
The temperature on Saturday was approximately 10 degrees above normal, significantly deviating from seasonal averages. Other parts of the Kashmir Valley also experienced relatively high temperatures, with Gulmarg recording a maximum of 11.5 degrees Celsius and Pahalgam reaching 17.2 degrees Celsius.
In the Jammu region, temperatures were also above average. Jammu city recorded a maximum temperature of 25.2 degrees Celsius, which is 2.9 degrees higher than normal. Katra saw temperatures at 25 degrees, Batote at 19.9 degrees, Banihal at 19.8 degrees, and Bhaderwah at 21.3 degrees Celsius.
This winter season has seen below-average rainfall and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir. The higher temperatures in February have raised concerns among farmers, agricultural experts, and orchardists. The lack of winter precipitation raises fears of a drinking water crisis and irrigation shortages in the summer months.
The situation is considered serious because there was little expected snowfall during the 40-day harsh winter period known as ‘Chillai Kalan,’ which runs from December 21 to January 30. Typically, heavy snowfall during this time replenishes glaciers and mountain water sources, ensuring water supply in the summer. However, this year, snowfall was limited and mostly occurred at the end of the period, increasing worries about water availability.
Due to the unexpected rise in temperatures in February, the likelihood of heavy snowfall in the coming days is deemed low. March is now viewed as a crucial month, as potential snowfall could help replenish mountain water reserves before the summer season.
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