Against a normal preciptiation of about 70mm, this January recorded only 4.4mm.
By then natural springs and streams, thirsting for adequate rains since last June, would turn dry.
There was no significant snowfall or rain this winter.
When there is no snowfall in the mountains it is naturally going to affect water level in the plains.
It causes both qualitative and quantitative loss,” MeT director Sonam Lotus said.
Against a normal preciptiation of about 70mm, this January recorded only 4.4mm.
ShakilRomshoo, professor and head dpartment of Earth Sciences at the University of Kashmir, said the dry phenomenon is part of global climate exchange and “Kashmiris are not responsible for this”.
“We now have an eight-month-long dry spell now,” he said.
Although water flow in streams would increase in a month, it would recede after some time, he added.
Romshoo said people in northern and central parts of Kashmir, especially the hilly regions, will face water scarcity.