The state of Uttarakhand has recorded rainfall deficiency of 33% this winter season between 01st January and 10th February. The sister states of Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are also no better and reel with a shortfall of 24% and 56% respectively. Inadequate seasonal snowfall of Uttarakhand is a carry forward from January which registered 34% shortfall.
Seasonal variability of rain and snow for the state of Uttarakhand is quite large. While 2019 has been the rainiest in the recent past with a surplus of 99%, 2020 also was adequately wet with an excess of 68%. Prior to this, the state went through a hat trick of ‘low’ witnessing deficiency of 67%, 53% and 68% in 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively.
The current dry spell in Uttarakhand is likely to continue till 19th February with mild weather activity on 13th February. These conditions have come as a blessing in disguise as the relief and rescue operations are continuing on a war footing at the traumatic site. Weather conditions are not hindering the stupendous process of reaching the trapped workforce. Air operations badly need conducive conditions in this otherwise susceptible weather-sensitive terrain.
A twist in these weather conditions is expected on 19th February and later lasting for a few days. An active western disturbance and another support system will act in tandem to paint the hills white with a carpet of snow. Inclement weather conditions are quite likely at locations like Chamoli, Pithoragarh, Mukteshwar and Joshimath.
