Jammu and Kashmir observed a rather rare dry season this time. The intensity of snowfall remained less as compared to the previous winter years.
Not only this, the other two hilly states of North India including Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Usually during this time of the year, fresh snow blankets the Western Himalayas quite frequently. However, this year had an entirely different story to tell.
While Jammu and Kashmir received around 60 percent less rainfall, Himachal Pradesh remained 67 percent rain deficient.
The frequency of the Western Disturbances was as per usual, but not all these systems were active enough to give widespread rain and snow over the hilly states. The amount of snowfall received were quite less even over the higher reaches of the states.
Not only this, due to less rain and snow over the hills, the Northwestern Plains also remained practically dry for the entire season. Temperatures in both the hills and the plains also remained on the higher side.
While some blame climate change for the dry season, as per Skymet, a strong El Nino may have resulted in less rain and snow in the hills of North India.
Not only has less snowfall led to the disappointment in tourists, but fruit growers have also been worried. As per Fruit growers, warmer weather conditions usually cause premature flowering in the plants. This further deteriorates the quality of the fruit.
Also, due to dry and warm winters, lesser migratory birds have paid a visit this time. Every year, lakhs of migratory birds come to Jammu and Kashmir. This year, the number has reduced significantly.
Image Credit: livemint.com
