Srinagar, Mar 26: Despite successive western disturbances bringing recent spells of rain and snowfall, Jammu and Kashmir continues to face a significant precipitation shortfall, with the Kashmir division recording a deficit of over 50 per cent during March.
According to figures released by the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, most districts across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions experienced below average rainfall throughout the month.
In the Kashmir region, rainfall levels remained considerably low, with only Ganderbal reporting near normal precipitation. South Kashmir districts were among the worst affected, as Kulgam and Shopian recorded the steepest deficits, reflecting a sharp decline in seasonal rainfall.
Other districts including Budgam, Anantnag, Pulwama, Bandipora and Baramulla also reported substantial rainfall shortages. Overall, the division received nearly half of its normal precipitation during the period.
The Jammu division also witnessed a similar trend, registering a deficit of around 46 per cent. While Poonch and Samba recorded near-normal rainfall, districts such as Jammu, Kathua, Ramban and Udhampur remained below average.
Meteorological officials have forecast generally cloudy conditions with intermittent light to moderate rain and snowfall across the Union Territory between March 28 and 30. Higher reaches are likely to receive moderate snowfall, accompanied by thunder, lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph.
An advisory has also been issued cautioning residents about possible weather-related disruptions, particularly during night hours, as the region braces for another spell of unstable weather.