Gangtok, Feb 23: Fresh spells of rain and snowfall have been recorded in the higher reaches of Sikkim, particularly along the Changu–Nathula belt in East Sikkim following an unusually dry January and February.
According to reports, precipitation has been largely confined to North and East Sikkim, while West Sikkim continues to experience dry conditions.
The prolonged dry spell has significantly impacted water availability in the capital. Gangtok’s primary water source, Ratey Chhu—located about 17 km northeast of the city—has seen supply drop by nearly 60 percent compared to levels recorded in September, raising concerns over water security in the densely populated region.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued two yellow alerts for Sunday afternoon, forecasting thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by moderate rain or snowfall in Pakyong, Gangtok and Mangan districts.
North and East Sikkim are likely to receive isolated rainfall until February 24, with a few spells expected in South Sikkim as well. Mangan district may experience extended rainfall activity till February 27, the IMD said.
The extended winter dry spell—marked by only isolated rainfall in December last year—has also contributed to a surge in wildfire incidents across the state. Even higher-altitude areas such as Kupup and Gnathang, known for sparse shrub vegetation, have not been spared. A major wildfire was reported in Mangshila in Mangan district just days ago.
