The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Feb 26: Widespread rain and heavy snowfall is likely to occur across Jammu and Kashmir beginning Monday evening, according to a weather advisory issued by the local Meteorological department. The projected winter storm has prompted officials to advise travellers, tourists and residents in avalanche prone areas to take precautions.
Up to two feet of fresh powder is expected in middle and higher elevation mountain areas. Srinagar registered an overnight low of minus 2 degrees Celsius Monday morning, with minus 9 in Gulmarg and minus 7 in Pahalgam. The Ladakh region saw bone-chilling temperatures as low as minus 21.7 degrees Celsius in Drass. Jammu city was comparatively warmer at 7.9 degrees Celsius.
“In view of heavy and very heavy snowfall over few middle and higher reaches, travellers/tourists are advised to plan accordingly and follow administration/traffic advisory,” the MeT department advisory stated. It further advised the general public in hilly and avalanche prone areas not to venture out unless absolutely necessary. Agricultural operations are also recommended to be withheld during the first week of March in anticipation of treacherous winter weather across the Kashmir valley.
The incoming winter storm marks a turbulent end to February and threatens to disrupt travel, agriculture and daily life for thousands across Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities are working swiftly to prepare emergency resources and issue guidance to keep residents safe as the snowstorm impacts the region over the next few days.
