Why is it in the News?

The Indian Himalayas are experiencing an unusual lack of snowfall this winter, impacting ski resorts and prompting holiday cancellations.

Key Highlights of the Report:

• Unprecedented precipitation deficit: December witnessed an alarming 80% precipitation deficit in the western Himalayan region.
  • The ongoing dry spell in January is attributed to the absence of active western disturbances this winter season, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
• Impact on freshwater resources: Experts warn of potential impacts on freshwater availability in the Himalayan region.
  • The extended dry spell poses a threat to horticulture and agricultural production, raising concerns among experts.
• Unseasonal blooming and alarming temperature anomalies: Despite being peak winter, Ladakh and Kashmir experienced unusually warm temperatures, leading to early crop blooming.
  • A report by IMD scientists reveals maximum temperatures 5-8 degrees Celsius below normal over the northern plains since December 29.
• Challenges to water levels and ecosystems: Experts also highlight the significance of the Chillai Kalan snowfall period as the only freshwater source.
  • The prolonged dry spell has resulted in reduced water levels in rivers and streams, posing challenges to the region's ecosystems.

Factors contributing to severe weather conditions:

• Scientists attribute the severe weather to three main factors:
  • Lack of active western disturbances
  • Prevailing El Nino conditions, and
  • A strong jet stream.
• El Nino, characterised by abnormal warming in the central Pacific Ocean, contributes to altered weather patterns.
• Mechanics of fog formation: Scientists explain the three conditions required for fog formation: weak low-level winds, moisture, and overnight cooling.
  • The lack of strong western disturbances disrupts these conditions, contributing to the prolonged fog.
• Persistent jet streams and cold wave conditions: Strong jet streams prevailing over north India for the last five days have led to the subsidence of cold air, enhancing cold wave/cold day conditions.

These conditions are expected to continue over the next five days, intensifying the challenges posed by the ongoing weather anomalies.