Kashmir braces for an extended wet spell as the Meteorological Department predicts inclement weather starting from Saturday evening. With advisories issued to travellers and essential services departments, the rise in night temperatures hints at the looming possibility of moderate to heavy snowfall in the region.
Residents and authorities alike prepare for potential disruptions amid the forecasted weather conditions.
The Meteorological Department (MET) expects a lengthy wet spell in Jammu and Kashmir from Saturday night until February 21 afternoon.
The prediction predicts moderate to severe Western Disturbances hitting the region beginning February 17 afternoon, with the possibility of light snow in isolated higher elevations by late Saturday night.
On February 18, “several areas can expect gloomy weather with light to moderate rain and snowfall,” said an official.
He added, “From February 19 to 20, there is a chance of mild to moderate rain and snow in most places, with some districts seeing substantial snowfall.”
Beginning February 21, there is a likelihood of light to moderate snow in several areas until the afternoon, with progressive improvement thereafter.
The (MET) issued an advisory warning of the temporary closure of roads in higher elevations and major passes due to the weather system.
“Travellers have been encouraged to plan properly, while farmers have been told to manage their irrigation and drainage systems,” said the official.
Meanwhile, another official said that “the men and machinery by the essential services have been kept on operational readiness to tackle any emergencies.”
According to MET officials here, Srinagar recorded a low of minus 1.6 degrees Celsius, up from minus 3 degrees Celsius the night before, which is 2.6 degrees Celsius below typical for this time of year.
Night temperatures in Qazigund, Pahalgam, Kokernag, Kupwara, and Gulmarg rose as well. Qazigund reported a minimum temperature of minus 1.2 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam minus 4.2 degrees Celsius, Kokernag 0.4 degrees Celsius, Kupwara minus 2.4 degrees Celsius, and Gulmarg minus 3.4 degrees Celsius.
The temperatures in these locations were either below or slightly above usual. The minimum temperature in Jammu was 9.2 degrees Celsius, 1.3 degrees Celsius lower than average. Banihal reported a low of 1°C, Batote 4.6°C, and Bhaderwah 2.4°C.
Kashmir is currently in the middle of the 20-day-long winter period called Chillai Khurd, which concludes on February 18. This will be followed by a 10-day Chillai Bachha, which begins on February 19 and ends on February 28.
Follow us
