Srinagar, the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is yet to experience snowfall this year. Gulmarg, known for its ski slopes, remains devoid of the usual winter snow, disappointing enthusiasts from India and abroad.
This January marks the first time in recent public memory that Gulmarg and Pahalgam, renowned for their snowy landscapes, have seen no snow.
The plains have received no snowfall, and the hilly areas have seen below-average snowfall, contributing to a 79 per cent rainfall deficit throughout December in the Kashmir Valley.
Experts warn that this reduction in snowfall might lead to water scarcity and a potential food crisis in the region.
Commenting on the dry spell, Mukhtar Ahmad, the Director of the Kashmir Meteorological Centre, told ANI, "The whole of December and the first week of January has been dry. There are no major precipitation chances in the coming days. The weather may remain dry till noon of January 16. There was a pattern of early snowfall for the last three to four years, which is missing this year. There is no major spell. El Nino has persisted since November and may continue till next month."
What is El Nino?
El Nino, a climate pattern, refers to the unusual warming of surface waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, constituting the "warm phase" of the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). It manifests as elevated sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.
This warming triggers a shift in atmospheric circulation, resulting in reduced rainfall over Indonesia, India, and northern Australia, while enhancing rainfall and tropical cyclone formation over the tropical Pacific Ocean.
In Kashmir, El Nino's impact is evident through prolonged dry spells, milder winters, and diminished snowfall. Experts caution that the region is likely to face more frequent and extended droughts in the future.
Fourth Khelo India Winter Games Set In Gulmarg
The lack of snow is also a major disappointment for winter sports enthusiasts, who flock to Gulmarg for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
Gulmarg is gearing up to host the 4th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games from February 2 to 6. Following the success of the first three editions, the world-famous ski resort is once again taking centre stage for this event.
For the upcoming edition, Gulmarg has been designated to host competitions in Skiing, Snowboarding, and Ski Mountaineering. In addition, Ladakh will be the venue for Ice events, including Ice Skating and Ice Hockey.
The Games are set to feature more than 400 athletes representing various States, Union Territories, and the Army. The competitions will take place at Kongdoori and the main bowl of Gulmarg.
