Weather to improve after Sept 15: MeT
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Sept 13: As the scorching heat wave continues to grip Kashmir, there has been an alarming decrease in the water level of the Jhelum River due to which several spots along the river have been left completely dry, a situation locals deem unprecedented for this time of the year.
Expressing deep concern, one resident shared, “This is the first time I have seen houseboats stranded on a dry riverbed due to the decrease in the water level. While this is concerning, it has also affected the livelihood of people who operate houseboats as guest houses on the Jhelum.”
Officials within the Jal Shakti department acknowledged the severity of the situation. They report that the prolonged period of arid conditions has led to a significant decrease in the water flow within the Jhelum River, Doodh Ganga, and their associated tributaries.
At present, the absence of rainfall has resulted in a substantial depletion of water levels in both the river and its tributaries, potentially impacting the supply process, officials said.
However, it’s important to note that, according to these officials, no significant adverse consequences have been observed thus far.
They acknowledge that the protracted dry spell may present challenges but consider it a temporary issue, not viable over an extended timeframe.
The Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) department has reported a 20-25% reduction in lift irrigation capacity due to the extended dry spell. They remain optimistic that with improved weather conditions, the situation will gradually ease.
On the meteorological front, the local meteorological department has announced that there are no prospects of precipitation until September 15. However, a ray of hope shines beyond that date, with some areas expected to receive much-needed rainfall.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Deputy Director of the Meteorological Department in Srinagar, emphasized the parched conditions in Kashmir during August and September, drawing a stark contrast with recent rainfall in Jammu. He stated, “Due to that, the temperature is normal in Jammu, while in Kashmir, the heat wave is ongoing.”
He pointed out that Srinagar, in particular, has experienced a significant rise in temperatures. On September 12, the maximum temperature reached 34.5 degrees Celsius, marking the second-highest maximum temperature recorded since 1934. These elevated temperatures have officially been categorized as a heat wave, with other weather stations also reporting similar spikes.
Offering a glimmer of hope, Dr. Mukhtar explained that the elevated temperatures are expected to persist until September 15, after which cloudy conditions will prevail.
This change in weather patterns potentially brings relief in the form of rain. Dr. Mukhtar concluded.
Follow our WhatsApp channel