Srinagar, Feb 14: The Jammu and Kashmir region is bracing for an extended spell of heavy to moderate rain and snowfall anticipated to commence from February 17 and last until February 21, as per the latest forecast from the local Meteorological (MeT) office.
Director Mukhtar Ahmad highlighted, “A couple of moderate to intense Western Disturbances are most likely to affect J&K and adjoining areas from February 17 afternoon onwards.” He added, “Under the influence of these disturbances, an extended wet spell from February 17 (night) onwards till February 21 (afternoon) is most likely to occur over J&K and adjoining areas.”
Providing a breakdown of the expected weather conditions, Ahmad outlined the following predictions:
- February 17: Partly to generally cloudy weather with the possibility of light snow at isolated higher reaches towards late night in the Kashmir Division.
- February 18: Generally cloudy weather with the likelihood of light to moderate rain/snow at many places.
- February 19-20: Possibility of light to moderate rain/snow at most places (plains & lower reaches) with the potential for heavy snowfall over middle & higher reaches of several districts.
- February 21: Chance of light to moderate snow at many places till afternoon/late afternoon with gradual improvement thereafter.
In the Jammu Division, the forecast indicates:
- February 18: Possibility of light rain/snow at many places.
- February 19-20: Intermittent light to moderate rain with thunder/lightning in plains with light to moderate snowfall over higher reaches.
- February 21: Expectation of light to moderate snow/rain/thunder/lightning over many places till late afternoon/evening with gradual improvement thereafter.
The forecasted weather system may lead to temporary road closures in higher reaches and important passes such as Sinthan Pass, Mughal Road, Sadhna & Razdan Pass, Zojila, etc. A significant drop in day temperatures is also anticipated during this period.
As of Wednesday, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 3 degrees Celsius, while other areas like Gulmarg and Pahalgam experienced even lower temperatures. Similarly, Leh and Kargil in the Ladakh region registered sub-zero temperatures, while Jammu and other regions in the Jammu Division recorded comparatively milder temperatures.
Residents and authorities are advised to remain prepared for the upcoming inclement weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure safety and mitigate any potential disruptions.
