Sajid Raina
Srinagar, Dec 11 : Jammu and Kashmir has recorded a seasonal rainfall deficit of 17 per cent so far this season, with six districts in Kashmir, including Srinagar, receiving below-normal rainfall, while four districts reported large excess precipitation, official data showed on Thursday.
According to meteorological data for the period from October 1 to December 10, 2025, Kashmir Division received an average of 64.5 mm of rainfall against the normal of 77.5 mm.
The data accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) revealed that Srinagar recorded 38.6 mm against a normal of 73.1 mm, Pulwama 29.4 mm against 52.5 mm, Shopian 16.5 mm against 74.5 mm, Badgam 23.1 mm against 58.3 mm, Bandipore 27.5 mm against 79.1 mm, and Baramulla 28.3 mm against 84.8 mm.
These districts are considered to have received deficit rainfall, defined as 20–59 per cent below normal.
Meanwhile, districts such as Jammu, Kathua, Reasi, Doda, and Samba recorded large excess rainfall.
Jammu received 74.7 mm against 54.3 mm, Kathua 89.1 mm against 56 mm, Reasi 103.4 mm against 67.1 mm, Doda 129.8 mm against 84.2 mm, and Samba 48 mm against 18.3 mm.
The prolonged dry spell has led to drying of several main springs across Kashmir, affecting the drinking water supply in many villages.
Officials said despite the low rainfall in some areas, the overall water situation remains under control.
The Jhelum River has also seen a notable decline amid dry conditions. At the Sangam gauge, the river’s water level fell to 0.65 metres on December 10, marking the lowest level this season.
Officials, however, said the overall water situation in the Valley remains under control, and there is no shortage of drinking water.
The Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI), used to monitor drought conditions, shows negative values across the Valley, indicating dry conditions in several districts.
Officials have advised residents to conserve water and monitor water levels in minor streams and springs feeding villages, particularly in south Kashmir, where rainfall deficits are significant.
Witnesses from north and south Kashmir districts said that springs supplying drinking water to hundreds of households have been facing drying conditions for several weeks—(KNO)
