India faces second consecutive year of warm winters, raising concerns about water scarcity

India is grappling with warm winters for the second consecutive year, leading to growing concerns about the country's water supply. A recent report by Climate Trends highlights the seriousness of the situation. The report states that the past winter season witnessed deficient rainfall, resulting in a significant decline in overall precipitation. This rainfall deficit is exacerbating existing concerns about water scarcity and environmental sustainability.

Experts attribute the unusual weather patterns to the increasing effects of climate change. They point to the disruption in the crucial "Western Disturbances" system, which typically brings winter rainfall to northwestern India. This year, these disturbances have largely bypassed the western Himalayas, leaving the region dry.

According to the Climate Trends report, the situation has been worsening since December, with high temperatures and a notable absence of both rainfall and snowfall. Although some rainfall occurred in January, it was not enough to make a significant difference. February saw a glimmer of hope with an increase in precipitation, but temperatures remained above average.

Another worrying trend highlighted in the report is the increase in minimum temperatures across the country. This shift in weather norms is attributed to global warming, which is impacting not only maximum temperatures but also minimum temperatures, leading to a smaller diurnal range.

The report also sheds light on the influence of El Nino, a weather phenomenon associated with below-normal monsoon and warmer winters in India. Additionally, rising sea surface temperatures are contributing to India's changing climate patterns.

The report warns that besides water scarcity, the Himalayan region faces an increasing threat of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) due to glacier retreat. With Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand identified as high-risk areas, there is an urgent need for policy and disaster management action.

As the impacts of climate change become more evident in India, the need for immediate action becomes clearer. The findings of this climate trend report serve as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead and the importance of proactive measures to safeguard the environment and ensure a sustainable future.

Key points:

• India is experiencing its second consecutive year of warm winters.
• The rainfall deficit is raising concerns about water scarcity and environmental sustainability.
• Climate change is disrupting the "Western Disturbances" system, which brings winter rainfall to northwestern India.
• The report highlights the increasing trend of minimum temperatures across the country.
• El Nino and rising sea surface temperatures are contributing to India's changing climate patterns.
• The report warns of the increasing threat of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) in the Himalayan region.
• Urgent policy and disaster management action is needed to address the challenges posed by climate change.