Why Gulmarg sees snowless winter snow this season?

Gulmarg, known for its ski resort and lovely beauty in Kashmir, is experiencing unusually dry weather this January.

Traditionally covered in snow during this season, the lack of snowfall has disappointed travelers and prompted concerns among weather experts and those who rely on tourism for a living.

Gulmarg, which means "meadow of flowers," is a well-known location in Kashmir, attracting millions of people with its breathtaking Himalayan views and functioning as a global skiing hub. However, this year's lack of snow is due to a 79% rainfall deficit in the Kashmir Valley throughout December, with below-average snowfall in the mountainous areas and plains.

The meteorological bureau believes dry weather until January 20, could jeopardize snow accumulation and glacier formation. The absence of snowfall may cause water scarcity and a food crisis in the region. The El Niño phenomenon, caused by higher sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, affects worldwide weather patterns and is linked to the present weather anomaly. El Niño causes warming in the tropical Pacific, leading to changes in air circulation and less rainfall in Indonesia, India, and northern Australia.

Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Kashmir Meteorological Centre, observes the absence of the typical early snowfall pattern seen in recent years, raising concerns about the impact on skiing vacations, adventure tourism, and winter sports events such as the National Winter Games, which are scheduled for February 2-6. The unique weather trend is projected to result in milder winters and less snowfall in Kashmir, with scientists warning of more frequent and prolonged droughts in the future.

This unexpected dry season in Gulmarg acts as an indicator of the larger climatic challenges, as well as the importance of sustainable methods to mitigate the impact of climate change on regional ecosystems and livelihoods.