Heavy rain in Jammu and Kashmir soon, possible flood alert

The month of March in the last 2 years brought nothing but bad news and flooding for the state of Jammu and Kashmir. In between, September 2014 also witnessed heavy rainfall with flash floods and inundations in several places.

In fact, Jammu and Kashmir receives more rain in the month of March than in the Monsoon season.

The average rainfall for the month of March in Srinagar is 115.6 mm while the average is 60 mm and 70 mm in July and August, respectively. We can say that March is the rainiest month for Srinagar. Similar is the case with other places in the state.

Here’s a look at the average rainfall figures in millimeters in several places of Jammu and Kashmir:

In March 2014, Srinagar received 220 mm of rain and 295 mm in the next year.

Last year flood alert was sounded in the state at the end of the month. Gradually the rainfall kept increasing and the month ended with substantially high rainfall figures. The flood alert was issued on March 29 when Srinagar received 44 mm. Rainfall continued the next day and the city recorded 51 mm of rain.

Total rainfall of even 50 mm is sufficient enough to bring flood alert in Srinagar and adjoining areas. Complexity of terrain is the biggest drawback for the Kashmir Valley. Even moderate showers flowing down the slopes lead to flooding. Water and logging and inundations generally become a common affair with such moderate showers but flooding takes place only due to the terrain.

We can see a Western Disturbance approaching North India. There is also an induced cyclonic circulation coming up over Rajasthan and adjoining Pakistan region. The combined effect of these two weather systems will bring a prolonged spell of rain in North India including the hilly states.

Rainfall will begin from March 11 in the state. Places like Kulgam, Pulwama, Baramulla, Kupwara, Ganderbal and Kargil will be prone to mudslides and landslides. Jhelum River is the major threat as it flows through Srinagar and the above-mentioned places.

Source ::: http://www.skymetweather.com/content/weather-news-and-analysis/heavy-rain-in-jammu-and-kashmir-soon-possible-flood-alert/#sthash.xSmU4yIj.dpuf