Rain and snowfall trigger temperature drop across Kashmir valley
Heavy rainfall in the plains and fresh snow in higher reaches have disrupted traffic on several key mountain roads.
Moderate to heavy rainfall lashed most parts of Kashmir while higher reaches received fresh snowfall, according to reports from Daily Excelsior, WION and Kashmir Observer. The weather shift, caused by an active Western Disturbance, has led to a sharp dip in temperatures across the valley.
Snowfall was recorded in Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Zojila Pass, Mughal Road, Gurez, Kupwara, Drass, Machil Valley and Jumagund. In Bandipora district, Razdan Pass recorded approximately six inches of fresh snow, while Peer Ki Gali on the Mughal Road in Shopian saw about two inches of accumulation. The plains of Dawar in Gurez Valley also experienced the season's first snowfall.
The weather has disrupted traffic on several routes, including the Bandipora-Gurez Road, Mughal Road and the Srinagar-Leh Highway. A landslide at Rajanwani on the Uri-Baramulla National Highway also halted vehicular movement. Authorities have suspended travel on the Mughal Road, Gurez Road and Zojila Pass as a precaution against slippery conditions.
The Meteorological Department stated that significant rainfall was recorded in Baramulla, Gulmarg and Kupwara. Director Meteorological Centre Srinagar Mukhtar Ahmad said several mountainous areas were likely to receive significant snowfall. The department also noted that daytime temperatures were expected to decrease by 6 to 8 degrees Celsius.
Road clearance operations have been initiated by authorities and the Border Roads Organisation's 56 RCC at Razdan Pass to restore connectivity. While weather is expected to improve, light rain or snow may occur at scattered places over the next 24 hours. The weather is likely to remain generally dry from November 16 to 20.