Jammu and Kashmir faces huge rainfall shortfall, sparking forest fires
Jammu and Kashmir has seen a massive 86% drop in rainfall since November, with just 6.1mm recorded instead of the usual 43.1mm.
This dry spell has pushed Jhelum River's water to one of the lowest levels in recent years at Sangam, and there's no sign of rain or snow coming soon.
Why does it matter?
With rivers running low, people in Baramulla and Kupwara are experiencing drinking and irrigation water shortages—though areas in Sopore and Baramulla supplied by Wular Lake have not reported disruption.
Many smaller streams have nearly dried up, making things tougher.
The lack of rain has also led to about 10 forest fires in Kupwara since mid-November, fueled by dry conditions and sometimes even arson for morel mushrooms.
On top of that, snowfall is down nearly 47%, leaving the region colder and drier than usual.