Srinagar, Mar 23: Jammu and Kashmir continues to reel under a prolonged dry spell, with the first three weeks of March recording a 43 per cent rainfall deficit – the eighth consecutive period of deficient precipitation this season.
The region, known for its distinct winter snowfall and rainfall between December and March, has been experiencing back-to-back dry spells, severely impacting water availability and orchardists.
Between December 2025 and February 2026, Jammu and Kashmir recorded a 65 per cent winter rainfall deficit. February was particularly dry with an 89 per cent shortfall, followed by January at 23 per cent, resulting in below-normal snowfall and unseasonably warm conditions.
From March 1 to 22, the region received only 65.1 mm of precipitation against the normal 113.2 mm—a deficit of 43 per cent. This marks an improvement from 62 per cent on March 18, following a brief wet spell on March 19 and 20.
According to independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng, Kulgam recorded the highest deficit at 84 per cent, followed by Shopian at 79 per cent. Anantnag saw a 59 per cent shortfall, Budgam 62 per cent, while Srinagar and Jammu recorded deficits of 32 per cent and 46 per cent, respectively. Samba and Ganderbal were the only two stations with above-normal rainfall, recording surpluses of 36 per cent and 18 per cent.
Director Meteorological Department, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, has forecast generally dry weather till March 25. He informed that generally cloudy weather is expected on March 26 with the possibility of a spell of light rain and snow at a few places towards afternoon.
On March 27 and 28, generally dry weather is expected. The Director said a brief spell of light rain and snow at isolated places cannot be ruled out.
However, according to the MeT Director, generally cloudy weather is expected from March 29 to March 31 with possibility of light to moderate rain and snow (higher reaches) at many places with thunder and gusty winds (40-50 KMPH).
He added that partly to generally cloudy weather is expected from April 01 to April 3.
The Director MeT has advised the farmers to suspend all farm operations during March 26th, 29-31st.
