Kashmir heats up as Jhelum dries… from Gulmarg to Srinagar where snow once covered the land, heat now takes over
Srinagar (The Uttam Hindu): Weather patterns in Kashmir Valley, often called paradise on earth, appear to have changed significantly this year. During the first week of March, the valley is usually covered with a thick blanket of snow. However, this time strong sunshine and rising temperatures have surprised residents. The region is currently facing the dual impact of heat and dry conditions.
According to the India Meteorological Department, temperatures in areas that usually remain cold during this period are several degrees above normal. At the popular tourist destination Gulmarg, where temperatures should normally be around 4°C at this time of year, the mercury has climbed to 17.2°C.
Temperature rises in Srinagar and Pahalgam
In the capital city Srinagar, the daytime temperature was recorded at 24.7°C, which is about 11.7 degrees above the normal level. Meanwhile, at the tourist destination Pahalgam, the temperature reached 20.8°C, nearly 10 degrees higher than the average.
Apart from this, Qazigund recorded a temperature of 24.6°C and Kupwara registered 23.7°C. In Jammu, the mercury rose to 32.4°C, which is around 8 degrees higher than the normal temperature.
Water level of Jhelum river drops
The rising heat and lack of rainfall have also affected the Jhelum River, considered the lifeline of the valley. According to the meteorological department, no rainfall has been recorded anywhere in Jammu and Kashmir during the past 24 hours, creating conditions similar to drought across the region.
According to the Flood Control Department, the water level of the Jhelum River at the Sangam monitoring point in south Kashmir was recorded at 0.86 feet on Thursday morning, which is below the zero gauge level. Experts say this situation is highly unusual.
Scientists and farmers express concern
The sudden change in weather has raised concerns among scientists and farmers. Normally, melting snow in the mountains during March increases the water level in rivers. However, due to low rainfall and limited snowfall during winter this year, the water level has declined.
Independent meteorologist Faizan Arif said that this situation indicates a weak snowpack. Agricultural experts also warn that reduced water levels in the Jhelum could affect farming activities. Rice nurseries are usually prepared in April, which require sufficient water supply.
Many farmers in south Kashmir depend on canals connected to the Jhelum and mountain streams. If water levels remain low, there could be delays in paddy cultivation this season.