Heavy Snowfall Predicted to Continue in Kashmir, MeT Office Issues Fresh Forecast

Heavy Snowfall Predicted to Continue in Kashmir, MeT Office Issues Fresh Forecast

Srinagar, 20th February: The Meteorological Department has issued a fresh forecast for Kashmir, predicting the continuation of heavy snowfall in the region. According to the forecast, there is a possibility of intermittent light to moderate rain and snow at most places until late afternoon or evening on the 20th of February.

Moving forward to the 21st of February, there is a likelihood of intermittent light rain or snow at a few places until the afternoon or evening, with gradual improvement thereafter. However, no significant weather activity is expected until the 27th of February.

The forecast also indicates that a fresh Western Disturbance (WD) is likely to affect Jammu and Kashmir and adjoining areas from the 27th of February, although detailed information about this is awaited.

In the Jammu Division, similar weather patterns are expected. On the 20th of February, there is a possibility of intermittent light to moderate rain at most places, accompanied by thunder, lightning, and gusty winds in the plains of the Jammu Division. Additionally, light to moderate snowfall is expected over higher reaches until evening.

On the 21st of February, intermittent light snow or rain is anticipated over a few places until late afternoon or evening, with gradual improvement thereafter. Similar to the Kashmir region, no significant weather activity is forecasted in the Jammu Division until the 27th of February.

In light of the heavy to very heavy snowfall experienced in some middle and higher reaches over the past two days, travelers and tourists are advised to follow administrative and traffic police advisories. The general public in hilly areas is cautioned against venturing into avalanche-prone and slopy areas.

The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has issued warnings of isolated heavy snow over higher reaches on the 20th of February and heavy to very heavy snowfall at scattered places on the 19th of February. These weather systems may lead to road closures, especially over higher reaches such as Sinthan Pass, Mughal Road, Zojila Pass, Razdan Pass, and NH-44, potentially disrupting surface traffic.

The warning level is set at “Be aware (be updated)” with expected impacts including disruption of traffic flow at higher reaches and passes, supply and transportation disruptions in hilly areas, and other related inconveniences.

To mitigate these impacts, it is recommended to obtain information regarding vehicular movement from the concerned departments before planning visits to reaches, passes, or tourist destinations.

Additionally, caution is advised while driving in snow-affected areas, farmers are advised to adjust their agricultural practices, and residents in snow-bound areas are urged to avoid risky areas prone to avalanches.

It is advisable to monitor alerts and weather reports for updates and warnings regarding the ongoing heavy snowfall in Kashmir.