Kashmir Braces for Season’s Heaviest Snowfall, Met Office Issues Advisory

Kashmir Braces for Season’s Heaviest Snowfall, Met Office Issues Advisory

Srinagar, Feb 14: The Meteorological Department has forecasted an “extended wet spell” in Jammu and Kashmir starting from Saturday night until the afternoon of February 21. This prediction comes as a result of a couple of moderate to intense Western Disturbances expected to impact J&K and neighboring areas from February 17 afternoon onwards.

According to a weather official, the influence of these weather systems is likely to bring an extended wet spell from February 17 night till February 21 afternoon, covering most parts of J&K and adjoining areas.

In the Kashmir Valley, the forecast includes partly to generally cloudy skies with the possibility of light snow in isolated higher reaches towards late Saturday night.

On February 18, generally cloudy weather is expected with the possibility of light to moderate rain and snow at many places. From February 19-20, there’s a likelihood of light to moderate rain and snow across most places, with the potential for heavy snowfall over middle and higher reaches of several districts during late afternoon of February 19 to February 20 late night.

The forecast for February 21 indicates the possibility of light to moderate snow at many places until the afternoon and late afternoon, followed by gradual improvement thereafter.

In Jammu division, there is a possibility of light rain and snow at many places on Sunday, with intermittent light to moderate rain and snow in plains and higher reaches from February 19-20.

The Meteorological Department has issued an advisory cautioning about the potential impact of these weather conditions. Temporary closure of roads in higher reaches and important passes like Sinthan pass, Mughal Road, Sadhna, Razdan pass, and Zojila is expected.

Travelers are advised to plan accordingly, and farmers are advised to withhold irrigation and fertilizer application and drain out excess water from Orchards and fields during this period.

Significant drop in day temperature is also anticipated during this period. As for the current temperature readings, Srinagar recorded a low of minus 3.0°C, Qazigund at minus 2.0°C, Pahalgam at minus 5.2°C, Kokernag at minus 0.2°C, Kupwara at minus 3.4°C, and Gulmarg at minus 4.2°C. Jammu recorded a minimum of 8.1°C, while Banihal, Batote, and Bhaderwah recorded lows of 4.2°C, 0.6°C, and 1.6°C respectively.

As the 40-day harsh period of winter, known as ‘Chillai-Kalan’, ended on January 29, Kashmir is currently experiencing the 20-day-long winter period called ‘Chillai-Khurd’, which ends on February 19. This will be followed by a 10-day-long period known as ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold) starting from February 20 to March 1.

The Met Department advises residents to stay informed about weather updates and to take necessary precautions during this extended wet spell to ensure safety and minimize any potential disruptions caused by the weather conditions.