The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The Jammu & Kashmir Meteorological Department forecasts no significant weather activity until March 10, but residents should prepare for potential light rain or snow in the coming days.

According to the latest update released on March 9, the department predicts a chance of light rain or snow at a few locations on March 11 and 12. By March 13, this possibility extends to widespread areas, with the likelihood of light to moderate precipitation. March 14 may see light rain or snow in select spots.

Looking further ahead, from March 15 to 18, the region anticipates generally dry weather conditions.

However, amidst these forecasts, authorities issue advisories to the public, particularly those residing in hilly areas. Officials caution against venturing into avalanche-prone or sloped regions and urge adherence to avalanche warnings and advisories.

Additionally, farmers are advised to resume farm operations in light of the upcoming weather patterns.

SRINAGAR — In the past 24 hours, Jammu and Kashmir has been lashed by unrelenting rain, snow, strong winds, and hailstorms, posing challenges for residents and authorities alike. As the region grapples with these adverse weather conditions, the meteorological department predicts a temporary respite until March 10, followed by the likelihood of renewed precipitation from March 12 to March 14.

According to an official from the meteorological department, moderate to heavy rain and snowfall have been recorded across various parts of the region over the past day. Maximum wind speeds were observed in several districts, including Kupwara, Bandipora, and Srinagar. Additionally, hailstorms were reported in Banihal, Batote, Baderwah, and Jammu during this period.

Looking ahead, the official forecasts partly to generally cloudy weather today, with intermittent light rain or snow expected in scattered places later in the afternoon. However, there is no significant weather activity anticipated until March 10, apart from the possibility of light rain or snow at scattered locations on the night of March 6 to March 7.

Nevertheless, the forecast warns of a return to active weather patterns from March 12 to March 14, with fresh spells of rain and snow anticipated during this period.

Given the risk of heavy snowfall in certain areas, travellers and tourists are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and heed advisories from local authorities and traffic police. Additionally, residents in hilly regions are cautioned against venturing into avalanche-prone or steep areas, and farmers are advised to take measures to drain excess water from fields and orchards.

Authorities also highlight the potential for landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones at various locations, urging vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.

SRINAGAR — Srinagar-Kargil road is still blocked due to snow accumulation. After the recent snowfall, there is a lot of snow accumulation on the road, especially on Zojila Pass.

About Kargil-Zanskar road, District Police Kargil has said that subject to fair weather and good road conditions/road clearance, only one-way traffic for all types of vehicles with anti-skid chains shall be allowed from Zanskar towards Kargil.

Police in its advisory have said that due to frost conditions and apprehensions of avalanches, especially in the afternoon, all passengers are advised to travel in the morning. Moreover, no vehicle shall be allowed to pass the Penzila axis without anti-skid chains.

SRINAGAR — The meteorological department has predicted moderate rains and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir starting from March 1.

An official from the meteorological department quoted by a local news agency said that between February 26 and 27, there is a possibility of light rain and snow at scattered places from tonight until the morning of February 27.

According to the official, February 28 may see partly cloudy conditions with light snow in isolated higher reaches, while February 29 is expected to be generally cloudy with a chance of light rain and snow at scattered places.

The official further stated that from March 1 to March 3, moderate rain and snow are expected in most areas, with heavy to very heavy precipitation in a few middle and higher reaches from late evening on March 1 to the afternoon of March 3. Additionally, thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and gusty winds are anticipated in some places on March 1 and 2.

Authorities have issued advisories urging travellers and tourists to plan their journeys accordingly and to adhere to advisory instructions from local administrations and traffic police. Residents in hilly areas are advised against venturing into avalanche-prone and sloped areas, and they are encouraged to follow avalanche warnings and advisories closely.

Officials have also warned of potential landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones at various locations. Farmers have been advised to suspend irrigation and other farming operations during the first week of March due to the expected weather conditions.

SRINAGAR — Following recent rains and snowfall, residents can expect a period of tranquillity until February 26, as calm weather prevails across the region. However, the Meteorological Department has issued a forecast indicating the onset of another wet spell starting from February 27.

According to an official from the Meteorological Department, widespread light to moderate rain and snow occurred in various areas over the past 24 hours, with heavy precipitation reported in a few places. While the possibility of intermittent light rain or snow at isolated places persists, significant weather activity is not expected until February 26.

Looking ahead, from February 27 to 29, forecasts indicate the likelihood of light to moderate rain and snow at scattered to fairly widespread places, prompting caution among travellers and residents alike.

In light of heavy to very heavy snowfall experienced in certain middle and higher reaches over the past two days, authorities have advised travellers and tourists to adhere to advisory notices issued by the administration and traffic police. Additionally, residents in hilly areas are urged to avoid venturing into avalanche-prone and slopy areas, adhering to avalanche warnings and advisories.

Moreover, the Meteorological Department warns of the potential for landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones at various locations, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and preparedness during adverse weather conditions.

SRINAGAR — Following heavy snowfall and concerns regarding avalanche threats, authorities have announced the closure of all schools in the Gurez sub-division for two days.

An official order issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Gurez stated that given heavy snowfall and avalanche threat, it is ordered that all government and private educational institutions in sub-division Gurez shall remain closed for two days with effect from February 21, 2024.

The order aims to ensure the safety of students and staff in the wake of adverse weather conditions. The decision comes as a precautionary measure to mitigate any potential risks posed by the recent snowfall and the possibility of avalanches in the region.

PULWAMA — Amidst a picturesque scene of the Kashmir Valley draped in pristine white, a heartwarming moment unfolded as the boundaries between security forces and civilians momentarily dissolved. In the once restive Tral area of southern Kashmir's Pulwama district, CRPF personnel stepped in to assist a snowbound groom in reaching his in-laws' home, facilitating the continuation of wedding celebrations.

The unusual display of camaraderie took place in Branpathri, a remote village in Pulwama's Tral, where CRPF officers clad in khaki transformed into virtual wedding attendees and rescuers. They aided Mukhtar Ahmed, the groom, in navigating the snow-covered path towards his bride's residence.

Local sources reported to The Kashmir Pulse that Mukhtar Ahmed, son of Ghulam Hasan Poswal, a resident of Branpathri, had his wedding scheduled for Tuesday, February 20. However, heavy snowfall disrupted the plans, blocking roads and stranding the wedding party.

Responding to distress calls, a team from the CRPF's 180 Battalion at Mandurah camp swiftly arrived at the scene to assist. Faced with the impracticality of a traditional horse-drawn carriage due to the snow, the CRPF personnel offered an armoured vehicle, typically associated with conflict in Kashmir.

Without hesitation, the groom and his companions boarded the vehicle, accompanied by armed CRPF officers. Before departing for the bride's home, photographs were taken capturing the unusual but heartening moment.

The local community expressed gratitude towards the CRPF's 180 Battalion for their timely intervention. Mukhtar Ahmed, speaking to the media, extended his appreciation, stating, "After the heavy snowfall, I was afraid that I would not be able to reach my in-laws, but the CRPF played a key role in fulfilling my lifelong dream."

Zakir, one of the wedding attendees, echoed sentiments of gratitude, thanking the CRPF from the depths of his heart for their assistance during a crucial moment. CRPF officer Ram Jath, who led the rescue operation, explained that upon receiving the call for help, he promptly coordinated with senior officers to execute the rescue mission.

The upper reaches of the Kashmir Valley woke up to a fresh blanket of snow on Tuesday, February 20, with even the plains being enveloped by afternoon. The snowfall disrupted normal life, leading to road closures and flight cancellations at Srinagar airport.

SRINAGAR — The scenic landscape of Kashmir is blanketed in fresh snowfall while the plains, including Srinagar city, are drenched in rain, as per the latest observations from the Meteorological Department. The forecast suggests that the inclement weather is expected to persist until February 21, followed by a period of relative calm until February 27.

A spokesperson from the Meteorological Department informed that in the Kashmir division, light to moderate rain and snowfall are anticipated in most places, including plains and lower reaches. Moreover, heavy to very heavy snowfall is expected over the middle and higher reaches of districts such as Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora, Ganderbal, Budgam, and southern Kashmir until tomorrow.

On February 21, intermittent light to moderate snowfall is predicted in many areas until afternoon or late afternoon, with gradual improvement thereafter. However, the forecast indicates no significant weather activity until February 27.

In the Jammu division, intermittent light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning is expected in the plains, while light to moderate snowfall is forecasted over higher reaches, including isolated heavy snowfall in Ramban, Poonch, Doda, and Kishtwar until tomorrow.

Similarly, on February 21, intermittent light to moderate snowfall or rain is anticipated in many places until late afternoon or evening, followed by gradual improvement. Again, there is no significant weather activity expected until February 27.

Authorities caution that this weather system may lead to temporary road closures in higher reaches and key passes such as Sinthan Pass, Mughal Road, Sadhna Pass, Razdan Pass, and Zojila. Travellers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly.

Additionally, farmers are urged to suspend irrigation and fertilizer application while draining excess water from orchards and fields during this period. A significant drop in daytime temperatures is anticipated, according to the spokesperson.

SRINAGAR — Amid the rising day temperature, Jammu and Kashmir would likely experience a fresh wet spell as the weatherman here has forecasted light to moderate snowfall from February 17 to 20.

In the meantime, the government has also started readying arrangements to avert disruption of utilities due to snow.

Director Meteorological Department (MeT), Dr Mukhtar Ahmad told the news agency KNO that there is a possibility of heavy to very heavy snowfall over the middle and higher reaches of Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora, Ganderbal, Budgam and South Kashmir districts from February 19-20.

In Kashmir, Ahmad said on February 17, weather conditions are expected to remain partly to generally cloudy with the possibility of light snow at isolated higher reaches towards late night.

On February 18, he said, there is a possibility of light to moderate rain and snow at most places with heavy snowfall over isolated higher reaches of North, Northwestern, Central and South Kashmir.

On February 19-20, Ahmad said, there is a possibility of light to moderate rain and snow at most places of plains & lower reaches while the middle and higher reaches of Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora, Ganderbal, Budgam and South Kashmir districts would experience heavy to very heavy snowfall.

On February 21, he said, there is a possibility of intermittent light to moderate snowfall at many places till afternoon, late afternoon and gradual improvement thereafter.

In Jammu region, he said, there is a possibility of light to moderate rain and snow over higher reaches with thunder and lightning at many places on February 18.

On February 19 and 20, Director MeT said that there is a possibility of intermittent light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning in the plains of Jammu with light to moderate snowfall over higher reaches with heavy snowfall over isolated higher reaches of Ramban, Poonch, Doda and Kishtwar.

“Intermittent light to moderate snow and rain is expected over many places till late afternoon, evening and gradual improvement thereafter on February 21,” he said.

The weatherman has, however, issued an advisory, saying that the system may lead to the temporary closure of roads of higher reaches and important passes like Sinthan Pass, Mughal Road, Sadhna & Razdan Pass, Zojila and others. He advised the travellers to plan accordingly.

Moreover, the Director MeT advised the farmers to withhold irrigation and fertilizer application & drain out excess water from orchards and fields during the above period. A significant drop in day temperature during the above period is expected, he said.

Meanwhile, the Mechanical Engineering Department (MED) Kashmir has urged people not to park their vehicles on the roadside.

Kaplesh Pandita, a senior officer at MED Kashmir, told KNO that the department is all geared up and has made all arrangements to ensure smooth snow clearance from the roads.

“A mock drill has already been done, all men and machinery are ready. We urge people not to park their vehicles on the roadsides during the snowfall,” he said.

Another senior official looking into the functioning of the provincial control room said that they have activated 22 control and sub-control rooms across the valley and that all men and machinery are on standby mode.

“There are around 300 machines available with the mechanical and hospital engineering department and they are already stationed in all districts,” officials said.

He said that in district Srinagar alone, they have stationed over 40 machines to address any issues arising from the forecast weather conditions.

The official also said that in order to ensure no or least damage chances to the roads during snow clearance, they have procured high-tech snow clearance machines with plastic cartilage snow blades.

Moreover, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri convened a meeting of Deputy Commissioners & Head of Civil Departments wherein he directed all the departments to keep men, materials and machinery ready to tackle any exigency that may emerge from the expected snowfall.

He also directed officers to mobilize their field staff for effective & timely response to any emergency.

SRINAGAR — Last week when the valley received fresh snowfall, pictures of a train navigating through intense snowfall went viral on social media.

Amid immense response, social media was abuzz, with tourists keeping it on their wishlist to enjoy a train ride in snowclad Kashmir.

A train ride in Kashmir has emerged as a new addition to the region's tourism landscape.

Vistadome coach, which was recently introduced by the government, is fast becoming a hotspot for tourists, who get a 360-degree view of Kashmir from north to south.

Every day scores of tourists embark on the train to experience the view of snowclad Kashmir from Baramulla to Banihal.

“We have been getting scores of passengers who visit here to explore Kashmir. Since the trains here pass through beautiful landscapes, especially during the winter season when it is white everywhere, tourists love to experience this view. Every day we get hundreds of tourist passengers at our Srinagar and Banihal stations,” an official told the news agency KNO.

He said the occupancy of Vistadome has increased especially after snowfall. “The coach is running full. People love to experience Kashmir through this coach, which has every facility to make one's trip comfortable,” he said.

Pertinently, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Railway Minister, recently posted a captivating video showcasing a train navigating through intense snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir.

The video went viral with many expressing their desire to visit Kashmir and experience a train journey from south to north Kashmir.

Tourists who took the train ride in Kashmir compared it with that of Switzerland. "This is no less than Switzerland. We enjoyed our ride from Banihal to Baramulla. The views are amazing with snow-capped mountains. I recommend every tourist visiting Kashmir should enjoy and experience a train ride from Banihal to Baramulla to get a 360-degree view of Kashmir," said Bushra Khan, a tourist from Maharashtra.

Pertinently, last year, a series of videos of the scow-covered train also featured on social media mesmerizing video that enchanted netizens, even leaving South African professional cricket commentator Jonty Rhodes longing to embark on a journey on the train.

On a normal day, at least 15 pairs of trains run regularly from Baramulla to Banihal and carry almost 30,000 passengers, including students and employees.

SRINAGAR — The Meteorological Department has issued a forecast indicating potential weather changes in Jammu and Kashmir, with light snow and rain expected from February 18 to 20.

According to officials, the region is anticipated to experience dry weather until February 14, with occasional clouds expected towards the evening of February 14.

The overall weather outlook suggests dry conditions continuing until February 17, with the possibility of cloudy skies in the evenings leading up to February 14. However, from February 18 to 20, light snow and rain are predicted.

In light of the forecast and the accumulation of significant snow in various hilly areas accompanied by sub-freezing temperatures, authorities are advising travellers to adhere to advisories issued by the administration and Traffic Police.

SRINAGAR — Authorities on Sunday said that all flights scheduled for today have been cancelled at Srinagar International Airport due to ongoing weather conditions.

"All the flights have been cancelled for the day due to bad weather at Srinagar," the Director of Srinagar International Airport informed.

Pertinently, most parts of Kashmir including Srinagar witnessed major snowfall of the season even as weathermen forecast more.

An official of the Meteorological Department said that the plains received 3-6 inches of snowfall while 8-12 inches were recorded in the middle and higher reaches of Kashmir Division.

SRINAGAR — In response to current weather conditions and icy roadways, authorities have issued crucial advisories for the safety of motorists travelling along hilly routes under the jurisdiction of Traffic Rural Kashmir.

According to a traffic advisory issued in this connection by Traffic Police Officer Rural Kashmir, "No vehicular traffic will be permitted on hilly link roads until snow clearance is completed by relevant government agencies."

The advisory specifies that only 4x4 vehicles or those equipped with anti-skid chains, with a seating capacity not exceeding 10 seats, will be allowed on major hill roads. Heavy goods and passenger vehicles are strictly prohibited until snow and frost clearance is confirmed.

Emphasizing zero tolerance for overloading within the Traffic Rural Kashmir jurisdiction, the advisory warns of stringent legal actions against motorists operating vehicles without valid documents. Authorities urge strict compliance with these directives to ensure the safety of all travellers.

SRINAGAR — The J&K Meteorological Department has predicted a two-day wet spell starting tomorrow, bringing light to moderate snowfall across many parts of the region. Some areas, particularly in the north, northwest, and south, could see significantly heavier snowfall, reaching up to 12 inches in higher reaches.

While Friday was generally dry with a slight chance of light snow at high altitudes, things take a turn from Saturday (February 3rd) onwards. Expect afternoon clouds followed by light to moderate snow or rain in many places by evening. The snowfall is expected to intensify overnight, with some areas receiving heavy snowfall exceeding 8 inches.

The plains and valleys won't be spared either, with snowfall or rain predicted depending on the location. Central Kashmir plains are likely to see rain with light snowfall (1-2 inches), while Jammu division can expect light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning in some areas. Pirpanjal Range and Chenab Valley in the Jammu region might also see light to moderate snowfall during this period.

The good news is that the snowstorm should taper off by Sunday evening, with partly cloudy skies and a chance of light snow only in isolated high areas on Monday (February 5th). The rest of the week, from February 6th to 13th, is expected to be generally dry.

However, with inclement weather expected during Saturday and Sunday evenings, travellers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and pay close attention to advisories from the administration and traffic police.

SRINAGAR — The end of the 40-day Chilai Kalaan marked the onset of the 20-day Chillai Khurd in Kashmir, bringing a wet entry with widespread snowfall that covered Srinagar and various other regions, providing much-needed relief to the valley.

Snow Blankets Region

Snowfall was observed in Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, and other central and south Kashmir areas. The snowflakes not only ended the two-month-long dry spell but also brought smiles to the faces of Srinagarites who eagerly awaited the natural white cover.

According to a local news agency, several places experienced significant snowfall in the initial two days of Chillai Khurd. Sadhna Top received over 4 ft of snowfall, Gurez received 3 ft, and other areas recorded varying amounts, creating picturesque landscapes.

Transportation Disruptions

The change in weather patterns led to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway due to landslides in Ramban district, stranding over 200 vehicles. Sherbibi area witnessed landslides, closing the highway, the only all-weather road connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country.

Officials reported damage near Sherbibi on the Jammu-Srinagar highway, with restoration work underway. The closure affected the stranded vehicles, prompting traffic police to initiate measures for assistance.

Weather Forecast

Director of the Meteorological Department, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, stated that generally dry weather with the possibility of very light snow is expected at isolated higher reaches. The forecast predicts light to moderate snow and rain across Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday and Sunday. However, the weather is expected to turn dry from February 5 to 12.

The local Meteorological department issued an advisory, urging travellers to plan accordingly due to intermittent moderate to heavy snow leading to temporary road closures in higher reaches and important passes. They advised following administration and traffic police advisories for a safe journey.

Closure of Jammu-Srinagar Highway

Over 200 vehicles remain stranded on different points of the 270-km Jammu-Srinagar highway, highlighting the challenges posed by the weather conditions. The closure emphasizes the need for caution and preparedness among travellers during this winter season in Kashmir.

SRINAGAR — The vital Jammu-Srinagar highway, serving as the sole road link between Kashmir and the outside world, faced a severe disruption due to shooting stones at the T2 tunnel.

An official source quoted by a local news agency said that the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NHW) has been obstructed due to shooting stones at T2, a consequence of heavy rainfall and snowfall between Ramsoo and Banihal.

Authorities caution the public against embarking on journeys along NHW until the road is successfully cleared. Travelers are advised to consult the traffic control unit for real-time updates before commencing their trips.

In addition to the Jammu-Srinagar highway blockage, the official noted that both the Mughal road and Srinagar-Sonamarg road are already inaccessible due to significant snow accumulation, intensifying the travel challenges for the region.

SRINAGAR — The Meteorological Department issued a forecast on Wednesday indicating the likelihood of light to moderate rain and snow, with the potential for heavy snowfall in select higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir.

An official from the MeT department informed us that these weather conditions are expected to prevail from late afternoon or evening through tomorrow.

The official detailed that the daytime weather will generally be cloudy, with the possibility of light to moderate rain or snow across various locations in Jammu and Kashmir. This is anticipated to commence in the late afternoon or evening and persist until tomorrow morning or forenoon, with the chance of heavy snowfall in certain higher reaches of the north, northwestern, and south Kashmir.

He further stated that lower reaches and plains of the north, northwestern, and south Kashmir region may experience a snowfall depth of 6-8 inches, while the plains of central Kashmir could receive 2-4 inches during tonight and tomorrow early morning.

Looking ahead to February 2, the official mentioned that the weather is expected to be generally dry, with the possibility of very light snow in isolated higher reaches. From February 3 to 4, there's a projected chance of light to moderate rain or snow across many places in Jammu and Kashmir. Beyond that, from February 5 to 12, the weather is expected to remain generally dry.

Due to intermittent light to moderate snowfall over the past three days in higher reaches, significant snow accumulation has occurred in the north and northwestern parts of the Kashmir division. This has led to the temporary closure of roads in higher reaches and important passes. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly to navigate these conditions.

SRINAGAR — In a commendable display of swift action, Kulgam Police responded to a distress call from Mashkoor Ahmad Malik of Humpathri, DK Marag, who reported that his pregnant wife urgently needed medical attention in the far-flung area.

According to information obtained from a local news agency, the family found themselves unable to transport the woman to the hospital due to the challenging circumstances, including recent snowfall and slippery roads.

Upon receiving the distress call, a police party from Kulgam, led by IC PC DK Marag, quickly reached the location. Despite the difficult conditions, including treacherous roads, the officers evacuated the pregnant woman in the official vehicle to a nearby hospital at DK Marag for immediate medical treatment.

An official stated that traditional means of transportation, including ambulances, were not feasible under the circumstances.

The locals, particularly the family members of the pregnant woman, expressed gratitude and admiration for the prompt response and timely assistance provided by Kulgam Police during this critical situation.

SRINAGAR — The higher reaches of the Kashmir valley witnessed a fresh bout of snowfall, while some plains experienced rainfall, setting the stage for an extended spell of wintry weather.

Meteorological Department officials have extended their forecast, predicting prevailing weather conditions to persist until February 3 in the region.

According to the officials, the latest snowfall measurements in various areas of Kashmir are a mixed bag, with Doodhpathri recording two inches, Ganderbal (Sonamarg/Zojila) recording a feet, Bandipora (Razdan Top) recording two feet, Dawar Gurez recording six inches of snowfall.

Also, Izmarg with 16 inches, Tulail with four inches, Kupwara (Sadna Top) with 18 inches, Farkin Top with 16 inches, Z-Gali with two feet and Machil with 12 inches of snowfall marked a wet wintery day.

Meteorological department officials outlined the forecast for January 29, indicating a possibility of light to moderate rain and snow at numerous locations across Jammu and Kashmir. Heavy snowfall is anticipated over isolated higher reaches of the Kashmir Division, including districts like Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora, Ganderbal, Shopian, Anantnag, and Kulgam, extending till late Monday afternoon.

Looking ahead to January 30-31, the forecast suggests a likelihood of light to moderate rain and snow at many places in Jammu and Kashmir, with the potential for heavy snowfall in select higher reaches within the Kashmir region.

Similarly, between February 1-2, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy, with light rain and snow anticipated at various locations during late afternoon and evening periods. On February 3-4, there is a possibility of light to moderate rain and snow covering many places in Jammu and Kashmir.

Residents and travellers are advised to stay vigilant and plan accordingly, as the region grapples with the wintry mix and potential challenges posed by heavy snowfall in specific areas.

SRINAGAR — The Meteorological Department Kashmir on Monday predicted a much-awaited end to the dry spell in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the forecast, the current dry weather is expected to persist until January 24, after which the region can anticipate a shift in weather patterns.

From January 25 to February 1, various weather phenomena are expected to grace the picturesque landscapes of J&K.

The forecast stated generally cloudy conditions with light snowfall at isolated higher reaches on January 25-26. Subsequently, on January 27-28, the region may experience scattered light rain and snow.

The highlight of the forecast lies in the period from January 29 to January 31, where there is a high probability of light to moderate rain and snow at numerous places across Jammu and Kashmir.

"As February begins, the possibility of light rain and snow at scattered locations on the first day brings further anticipation for a weather change," it said.

"However, residents are advised to brace themselves for a brief downturn in visibility and a dip in daytime temperatures over the plains of Jammu Division in the next two days due to moderate to dense fog," the MeT said.