Kanpur Division Braces for Dry Winter, Farmers Express Concern
The Kanpur division is set to experience a significant shortfall in seasonal winter rains this year. Prevailing climatic conditions have created this dry scenario, leaving farmers anxious about their crops. Many had hoped for timely precipitation to support agricultural activities, but those expectations now appear dashed.
Weather Experts Confirm Dry Forecast
Weather specialists confirm there are no indications of winter rainfall across Uttar Pradesh, including the Kanpur division. This situation compels farmers to explore alternative irrigation methods to sustain their fields. S Sunil Pandey, a weather expert from Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, provides detailed insights into this phenomenon.
Pandey observes that the ongoing winter has remained largely dry. He points to the absence of snowfall and adequate rainfall in hilly regions as primary reasons. "Almost all hills appear barren, showing black or brown colors instead of the expected white snow cover," he explains. This visual evidence underscores the severity of the dry spell.
Weak Western Disturbances to Blame
The prolonged dry period primarily stems from weak western disturbances. These cyclonic systems typically originate in the Mediterranean Sea and carry moisture to the Indian subcontinent. However, during the 2025–26 winter season, most western disturbances proved feeble. They failed to generate significant rain or snowfall in the Himalayan region, resulting in dry conditions across the plains.
The western Himalayan region experienced a severe "snow drought" with minimal rainfall or snowfall in December 2025 and early January 2026. This absence of snow in the hills reduced the formation of induced cyclonic circulations. These circulations usually trigger rainfall over Uttar Pradesh, but their lack has contributed to the current dry weather.
Altered Weather Patterns and Global Factors
Pandey notes that several recent western disturbances tracked at higher latitudes. They passed north of India, completely missing the plains. A persistent shift in the subtropical westerly jet stream altered normal weather patterns, diverting these systems away from the region.
Scientists also highlight rising global temperatures as a contributing factor. These temperatures influence the frequency and intensity of western disturbances, making winter weather increasingly erratic and warmer. This trend leads to reduced precipitation, exacerbating the dry conditions.
Current Conditions and Future Outlook
Meanwhile, the region remains under the grip of dense fog and cold-day conditions. Experts explain that this stable and dry atmosphere, combined with persistent fog, acts as a barrier to rain-bearing clouds. It prevents moisture from reaching the area, further hindering rainfall prospects.
Pandey adds that as of mid-January, the India Meteorological Department recorded no significant weather systems affecting the region. However, forecasts indicate the possibility of relatively stronger systems later in the month. Farmers and residents await these developments with cautious hope, as the dry spell continues to impact agricultural and daily life.
