SRINAGAR, Nov 13 (Agencies): Fresh snowfall in higher-altitude areas and widespread rainfall across the plains continued in Kashmir on Friday under the influence of an active Western Disturbance, resulting in a significant drop in temperatures and disruption of road connectivity in mountainous areas, officials said.
The fresh precipitation is part of a significant Western Disturbance that affected Jammu and Kashmir on November 12 and 13, bringing widespread rainfall to the plains and moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches.
Speaking to the news agency, Director of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, described the weather system as significant, forecasting moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches and light to moderate rainfall across the plains.
“This is a significant weather system. While rainfall will dominate in the plains, we expect moderate snowfall across tourist destinations, marking the season’s first snowfall in Doodhpathri, Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg,” Ahmad said.
He also forecast fresh snowfall in higher reaches and important mountain passes, including Pir Ki Gali, Sinthan Top, Zojila, Razdan Pass, Sadhna Top and Margan Pass, with snow accumulation of one to two feet possible at some locations.
The Meteorological Department had forecast a significant drop of 6-8 degrees Celsius in daytime temperatures during November 12 and 13. Isolated thunderstorms, hailstorms and gusty winds were also likely during the wet spell.
According to the Meteorological Department, weather conditions are likely to improve from November 14, although brief spells of light rain or snowfall cannot be ruled out at isolated places on November 14 and 15.
Generally dry weather is expected across Jammu and Kashmir from November 16 to 20, the forecast said.
Authorities have advised commuters and travellers to avoid unnecessary journeys along higher-altitude routes and follow official traffic advisories before undertaking travel.
The latest spell of precipitation marks a further transition towards winter in Kashmir, with snowfall covering higher mountain areas and rainfall accompanied by a noticeable drop in temperatures across the plains.