The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The Meteorological Department in Srinagar has issued a weather advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, warning of potential flash floods, landslides, and mudslides in vulnerable areas due to intense rainfall over the next two days.

According to the forecast, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected across many parts of the region late at night and early morning on August 19 and 20. A brief spell of showers is also anticipated at a few locations later in the afternoon.

The advisory specifically highlights the risk in the Jammu Division, where heavy rainfall could trigger flash floods, landslides, and shooting stones. People in vulnerable areas are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.

From August 21 to 22, the region will likely experience brief spells of rain and thundershowers during the day, with more widespread precipitation occurring late at night and early morning.

Kashmir Division is expected to see mostly calm weather with only occasional brief showers from August 23 to 31. However, light to moderate rain and thundershowers may continue in the Jammu Division during this period.

Additionally, the MeT Department forecasts a rise in daytime temperatures across the region from August 23 onwards, marking a transition to warmer conditions.

SRINAGAR — A flood-like situation was witnessed in Keller area of southern Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Saturday after the cloudburst occurred at Chowgam Kellar area while the rains lashed most parts of Jammu and Kashmir, bringing down the mercury across the Union Territory.

As per the details available with the news agency KNO, the cloudburst at Chowgam Kellar led to a flood-like situation today as the muddy water entered several residential houses. Although no damage occurred due to the incident, the muddy water has entered the residential houses in the hamlet today, the locals informed.

Flash floods also hit Achgoza village in the Valley's southern district of Pulwama. The village in Rajpora Tehsil of the district experienced severe disruption last night due to flash floods triggered by a cloudburst in the nearby forest area.

Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng said the sudden cloudburst resulted in the rapid accumulation of water, submerging the village and several residential properties.

A local resident described the situation, saying the water rose so quickly that they had no time to react. "Within minutes, our homes were submerged, and we had to evacuate hastily."

Another resident expressed relief that the water levels are now receding. Currently, water levels are decreasing, allowing villagers to begin assessing the damage and cleaning up.

DC Pulwama, Basharat Qayoom said the situation is being closely monitored and efforts are underway to provide necessary assistance to the affected families.

Meanwhile, below normal temperature was recorded at all the stations across Jammu and Kashmir as the rainfall continued from the wee hours of this morning till the afternoon.

As per the details, Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir has recorded a rainfall of 8.8mm from 8:30 this morning to 5:30 in the evening.

Qazigund, a gateway of Kashmir, has recorded a precipitation of just 1.2mm while Pahalgam recorded 6.2mm during the period. Kupwara, Kokernag and Gulmarg recorded precipitation of 1.3mm, 1.4mm and 2.2mm respectively.

According to the details, Jammu’s Batote has recorded the highest precipitation with 24.9mm in the last 24 hours till 8:30 am followed by 4.8mm in Banihal.

Meanwhile, the weatherman has predicted the possibility of a brief spell of rain and thundershower at a few places during daytime and light to moderate rain and thundershower at many places of J&K towards late night or early morning during the next three days till August 20.

Director Meteorological Department (MeT), Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said that there is a possibility of a brief spell of rain and thundershower at a few places during daytime and light to moderate rain and thundershower at isolated places of J&K towards late night or early morning from August 21 to August 23.

The MeT has also predicted the possibility of intense showers for brief periods and heavy rainfall in Jammu division that may lead to flash floods, landslides, mudslides and shooting stones over vulnerable places of J&K during the next three days.

SRINAGAR — Kashmir is reeling from a record-breaking heatwave that has pushed temperatures to unprecedented levels, according to independent weather forecaster Kashmir Weather.

On July 28, Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 36.2°C, marking the sixth-highest July temperature since records began in 1893. Historical data reveals that the previous records were 38.3°C on July 10, 1946; 37.7°C on July 5, 1953; 37.0°C on July 9, 1999; 36.6°C on July 19, 1997; and 36.4°C on July 24, 1967.

Qazigund shattered its all-time highest temperature record, reaching 35.6°C, surpassing the previous record of 34.5°C set on July 11, 1988. Similarly, Kokernag experienced its highest-ever temperature of 34.1°C, breaking its prior record of 33.5°C set just earlier this month on July 22, 2024.

The extreme heat wave brought more startling figures, with Srinagar's real feel temperature soaring to 39.5°C. Qazigund's record-breaking temperature was 1.1°C higher than its previous peak, and Kokernag's temperature exceeded its record by 0.6°C.

The temperature departures from normal were significant, with Qazigund at 7.7°C above average and Kokernag at an extraordinary 8.7°C above normal.

In the Kashmir region, Srinagar recorded 36.2°C, Qazigund 35.6°C, Pahalgam 30.1°C, Kupwara 35.8°C, Kokernag 34.1°C, Gulmarg 25.6°C, Anantnag 35.4°C, Bandipora 34.3°C, Baramulla 34.4°C, Sonamarg 29.8°C, Budgam 35.0°C, Pulwama 33.5°C, Shopian 34.4°C. Ganderbal and Kulgam had faulty readings.

In the Jammu region, Jammu recorded 32.0°C, Banihal 34.0°C, Batote 29.8°C, Bhaderwah 33.2°C, Katra 31.0°C, Udhampur 33.8°C, Kathua 38.4°C, Kishtwar 35.0°C, Samba 37.6°C, and Reasi 34.3°C. Ramban, Poonch, and Rajouri had faulty readings.

In Ladakh, Leh recorded 33.5°C, Kargil 37.5°C, and Drass 30.1°C.

SRINAGAR — In response to a persistent heatwave, the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir has ordered a temporary suspension of classwork for primary-level students across the region.

According to Order No. 200-DIVCOM2024, issued on July 28, 2024, all government and recognized private schools will halt classes for students up to the primary level on July 29 and 30. The decision comes in the wake of consistent calls to protect young children from the ongoing extreme temperatures.

Despite the suspension of classes for primary-level students, all teaching and non-teaching staff are required to continue their duties as usual.

The measure comes as the valley experiences an unusual and prolonged heatwave, raising concerns about the health and safety of school children.

Meanwhile, the divisional administration is monitoring the situation closely and said it will take necessary measures as warranted by the changing weather conditions.

SRINAGAR — The ongoing dry spell and heatwave in Kashmir have left fruit growers deeply concerned, who fear severe impacts on the region's horticulture sector. The sector, which is a vital source of income for many in Kashmir, is experiencing stress due to the lack of rainfall and high temperatures.

Speaking to the news agency KNO, growers expressed their worries about the prolonged dry weather's effects.

Mohammad Shaban Dar, an orchardist from Shopian, said the intense sunlight with the absence of rain over the past two months is adversely affecting fruit trees and their produce. He said that the lack of moisture is causing heavy fruit fall and affecting the quality and shine of the fruit. “This hampers its competitiveness in the market against apples from other countries,” he said.

Javid Ahmad, a horticulture expert, explained that the high temperatures and lack of rainfall are stressing the fruit trees, especially apple orchards, which are crucial to the local economy. “This could lead to smaller fruit sizes, sunburnt produce and an overall reduction in yield,” Ahmad said, adding that the lack of soil moisture could lower the quality of the fruit, which could lead to a decline in market prices and profitability for growers.

Experts are also concerned about the long-term health of the orchards if the current weather conditions continue, as most of the orchards in the region are rain-fed and lack proper irrigation facilities.

Bashir Ahmad Basheer, chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, said the prolonged dry spell is likely to impact the horticulture sector negatively. “This will lead to losses due to reduced fruit quality,” he said.

Director Horticulture Kashmir, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat said that around 60 percent of orchards in Kashmir are rain-fed, and the ongoing dry conditions could result in undersized fruit, heavy fruit fall and a decline in quality.

“Such conditions not only affect the current season's yield but can also reduce the fruit-bearing capacity of trees in future seasons, which damages the apple trees that growers work hard to maintain,” he said.

The horticulture sector is a significant contributor to the State Gross Domestic Product (SGDP) of Jammu and Kashmir, with a share of about 9.5 percent. It also generates approximately 8.50 crore man-days of employment annually.

The average apple production in Kashmir ranges from 20 to 25 lakh metric tonnes per year, with half of Kashmir's population directly or indirectly dependent on the apple industry, according to the 2017 economic survey in J&K.

SRINAGAR — Since 1981, the summer capital Srinagar has witnessed the third highest ever day temperature this summer season.

As per the Meteorological Department, Srinagar this summer recorded 35.7 degrees Celsius temperature which is the highest since 2006 when the temperature was recorded 35.5 degrees Celsius.

For the last 44 years since 1980, the highest temperature recorded in Srinagar was 37 degrees Celsius in 1999. The temperature recorded on Thursday as per the MeT was 34.5 degrees Celsius.

The highest day temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius were recorded in 1997 (36.6 degrees Celsius), 1999 (37 degrees Celsius), 2006 (35.5 degrees Celsius) and 2024 (35.7 degrees Celsius).

A MeT official told the news agency KNT that the prolonged dry weather has led to a sharp increase in day temperature across Kashmir during the last few weeks.

“After 18 years, Srinagar recorded the highest temperature this season. The hot weather conditions are expected to continue till Tuesday,” he added.

A severe heatwave is expected to grip Kashmir over the next three to four days. Weather models have significantly reduced the likelihood of rain in the region, indicating a prolonged period of hot, dry conditions.

Temperatures are forecast to climb to potentially record-breaking levels, with the possibility of some all-time highs being shattered. While the forecast predicts predominantly dry weather, isolated thunderstorms cannot be entirely ruled out.

People are advised to take precautions to protect against heat-related illnesses and avoid unnecessarily getting out in the sun, especially between 12:00 noon and 03:00 pm.

SRINAGAR — A severe heatwave is expected to grip Kashmir over the next three to four days, according to independent weather forecaster Kashmir Weather.

Weather models have significantly reduced the likelihood of rain in the region, indicating a prolonged period of hot, dry conditions.

Temperatures are forecast to climb to potentially record-breaking levels, with the possibility of some all-time highs being shattered.

While the forecast predicts predominantly dry weather, isolated thunderstorms cannot be entirely ruled out.

People are advised to take precautions to protect against heat-related illnesses and avoid unnecessarily getting out in the sun, especially between 12:00 noon and 03:00 pm.

SRINAGAR — Jammu and Kashmir is bracing for a severe heatwave over the next four days, with temperatures hitting record highs and impacting both daily life and the region's delicate ecosystems.

Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded its second-highest July temperature in a decade at 35.6°C, matching Jammu City’s temperature. Qazigund registered its third all-time highest temperature at 34.2°C.

Other parts of Kashmir, including Pahalgam and Kupwara, also experienced significant temperature increases, with the mercury rising to 29.3°C and 35.0°C, respectively. This heatwave is expected to continue, with weather models forecasting dry conditions and potential record-breaking temperatures.

The ongoing heatwave has exacerbated water scarcity issues, leading to public protests in Baramulla district. Residents, particularly within Pattan jurisdiction, have voiced their concerns over severe water shortages, prompting police to urge people not to block highways.

A recent violent demonstration at Chainabal saw the Srinagar-Baramulla National Highway blocked in protest. In response, Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Pattan, Dr Gulzar Ahmed, assured residents that their grievances would be addressed promptly, with water tankers deployed on a roaster basis to mitigate the crisis.

The rising temperatures are also threatening Kashmir’s aquatic life. Experts warn that the heat wave is disrupting the region’s aquatic ecosystems, leading to potential mass fish mortality.

Fish are highly sensitive to changes in water temperature, and the heatwave is causing water levels to drop and oxygen levels to decrease. This hostile environment has already led to incidents of mass fish deaths, with the most recent occurring in the Tsoont Koel stream near Barbar Shah, Srinagar.

Research highlights the deteriorating water quality in lakes such as Dal Lake, where dissolved oxygen levels have fallen drastically due to untreated sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial waste. The increased biological oxygen demand from pollution, combined with rising temperatures, creates a deadly combination for aquatic life.

Dr. Mehraj Bashir, an ichthyologist, noted that while some fish species can tolerate higher temperatures and pollution levels, the native Schizothorax species is particularly vulnerable and has seen declining numbers.

Meanwhile, despite the severe heatwave, the Education Department in Doda and Kishtwar districts has yet to change school timings, unlike in other parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Education Officer (CEO) Doda, Prakash Lal Thapa, stated that no representations from parents or heads of institutions have been received to prompt a change in school hours, leaving students to endure the harsh conditions.

As the heatwave continues to grip the region, authorities and experts alike are calling for vigilance and immediate measures to mitigate its impact on both human and aquatic life. Relief is expected after July 28, with a forecasted decline in temperatures.

SRINAGAR — The ongoing prolonged dry spell this summer is causing immense distress among valley farmers, raising concerns about its severe impact on crop growth and overall productivity.

Officials from the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department informed the news agency KNO that due to the extended dry weather and decreasing water levels in the Jhelum River, approximately 10% of irrigation agriculture schemes are being affected.

"We are currently witnessing a significant reduction in the water level of the Jhelum River due to prolonged dry weather conditions. The decreased water level has adversely affected lift irrigation," an official said.

The official further said that the overall water capacity of the Jhelum has decreased by 30% from normal levels, resulting in a 10% impact on irrigation schemes.

Meanwhile, Director Agriculture Kashmir, Choudhary Mohammad Iqbal, said, “Currently, there is moisture in the ground, but if there is no rainfall by next week, both paddy and vegetable crops will be negatively affected.”

“For the growth of paddy and vegetable crops, rainwater is crucial. Presently, there is some moisture in the ground, but without rainfall within the next week or so, adverse effects on both vegetable and paddy fields are anticipated,” Director Iqbal said.

Professor Dr Raihana, Chief Scientist at the Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir, said the prolonged dry spell had stressed plants, resulting in stunted growth in both paddy and vegetable crops.

“The extended dry spell has caused the tips of paddy crops to burn, while leaves of vegetables have become dry,” she explained. Dr Raihana added that the high temperatures coupled with the prolonged dry period have led to reduced crop yields, with stunted growth and leaf weathering in vegetable plants.

A considerable portion of the Jhelum River in Srinagar is visibly drying up, with surface patches becoming evident at various points along its stretch.

Another official from the I&FC Department said that over 40% of the Jhelum River in Srinagar has begun to dry up at multiple locations due to the extended dry spell.

“The ongoing dry spell is impacting water bodies. In Srinagar, approximately 40% of the Jhelum River has dried up, with surface patches visible at numerous locations,” the official said.

Farmers said the lack of precipitation and above-average temperatures have severely affected crop growth and development, dealing a significant blow to the region’s agricultural economy.

Several videos circulating on social media purportedly show farmers displaying their dry paddy fields, with young paddy plants also withering due to the dry conditions.

Farmers are anxiously awaiting relief from the dry and hot weather conditions as the prolonged spell continues to challenge their livelihoods and the overall agricultural economy.

SRINAGAR — Kashmir is expected to experience a mix of sunny and cloudy conditions with intermittent rain showers over the next few days, according to a weather forecast issued Tuesday by independent weather forecaster Kashmir Weather.

Temperatures across the region are expected to improve, with a slight chance of rain in the morning or late afternoon in Kashmir. The Jammu region is forecast to see a pause in rain by Tuesday night, with overnight showers possible for the next two days.

The weather service warned of a moderate risk of landslides and shooting stones on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.

For pilgrims undertaking the Amarnath Yatra, the forecast predicts a mix of clouds and sun with a possibility of rain showers, but overall dry weather. Temperatures at the holy cave are expected to peak around 20 degrees Celsius and drop to 10 degrees Celsius at night.

SRINAGAR — Pilgrims embarking on the annual Amarnath Yatra can expect generally dry conditions over the next few days, with intermittent chances of rain along the pilgrimage routes, according to the latest weather forecasts.

For the next 24 hours, meteorologists predict minimal rainfall across the region, though brief showers are likely in the afternoon or evening along both paths leading to the Amarnath Holy Cave. Authorities have advised caution due to potential rain spells and the risk of shooting stones or landslides, particularly on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.

Temperatures at the Amarnath Holy Cave and Sheshnag are expected to range from a daytime high of 17°C to a nighttime low of 7°C. Meanwhile, Chandanwari and Baltal could see daytime temperatures peak at around 25°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 10-12°C.

Looking ahead, the next 48 hours may bring short thundershowers to the region, particularly in the afternoon or evening, with a 40% likelihood of precipitation. However, areas along the Sonamarg and Pahalgam axis are expected to remain mostly dry during this period.

In broader Kashmir, the weather outlook remains stable with no widespread rain anticipated over the next three days. Daytime temperatures are forecasted to increase by 2-3°C, with isolated thundershowers possible later in the day or early morning in some areas.

In the Jammu region, overnight monsoon showers are expected in plains such as Jammu, Samba, Kathua, and Udhampur districts during the next few days. The likelihood of thundershowers also persists in districts like Poonch (55%), Rajouri (45%), Kishtwar (40%), and Doda (35%) during the late afternoon or evening hours.

Looking further ahead, meteorologists are monitoring the potential for a significant rain spell around July 5-6, with current estimates suggesting a 60% chance of occurrence.

Officials advise travellers and pilgrims to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and exercise caution during their journeys, especially in hilly and mountainous terrains prone to weather-related hazards.

SRINAGAR — A series of thundershowers are forecasted for parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the next week, with the weather predominantly affecting the Kashmir Valley.

On June 15, afternoon and evening thundershowers are expected in Kashmir. This pattern will continue with short thundershowers in some areas of northern Kashmir on June 16, and widespread thundershowers anticipated on June 17 and 18.

From June 19 to 21, short spells of rain are likely in many areas across the region, although continuous rainfall is not expected, and the weather should remain mostly dry.

Meanwhile, a heatwave is predicted in Jammu over the next three days, with temperatures soaring significantly.

Orchard spraying is recommended for early morning on June 16 for optimal conditions.

SRINAGAR — The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has issued a weather forecast for Jammu and Kashmir, predicting generally dry conditions with intermittent chances of thundershowers at isolated locations.

From May 28 to 29, generally dry weather is expected, though thundershowers may occur in isolated areas. On May 30 and 31, the region will experience partly to generally cloudy conditions with light rain or thunderstorms at isolated places. This pattern will continue from June 1 to 2.

A return to generally dry weather is forecast for June 3 to 5, followed by generally cloudy conditions with light rain or thunderstorms at isolated places from June 6 to 7.

The heatwave and hot, dry weather will persist over the plains of the Jammu Division for the next seven days. However, slight relief from the heatwave is expected from May 30 to June 2 in most parts of the Kashmir Division and some hilly areas of the Jammu Division.

It is in place to mention here that another spell of the heatwave is anticipated from June 3 to 5.

Residents are advised to avoid heat exposure between noon and 3 pm and to drink plenty of fluids, particularly vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, infants, and children.

SRINAGAR — With a likely respite from rains till May 5, precipitation of light intensity has been forecasted by the Meteorological Centre Srinagar at scattered places of J&K from May 6 to 7.

As per the news agency CNS, an official from the MeT Centre Srinagar in the latest weather update stated that mainly dry weather would be experienced from May 1 to 5 besides afternoon showers and the occurrence of hail at a few places during the given period.

However, the MeT has also expected light rainfall and thunder at scattered places on 6 and 7 of the next month.

According to the data compiled by the MeT Centre Srinagar, Srinagar received 23.6 mm rainfall during the last 24 hours till 8:30 am today, with Qazigund, Pahalgam, Kupwara, Kokernag, Gulmarg, Konibal, Muzaffarabad and Leh receiving 40.2mm, 41.6mm, 19.8mm, 35.8mm, 21.0mm, 34.0mm, 9.0mm and 0.1mm, respectively.

After anticipating dry weather in J&K from tomorrow, the MeT has advised farmers to resume farm operations from May 1 (Wednesday).

SRINAGAR — Though authorities ruled out the possibility of floods in Kashmir, several areas across the Valley were submerged due to inundation. The water level in Jehlum and other water bodies on Monday late evening was recorded below the danger mark.

Authorities said that the weather is likely to improve from midnight on Monday and the water level in the water bodies will recede drastically. Though there is no imminent threat of any flood, authorities conducted crucial meetings to meet any eventuality.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, who is also the Chairman District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) chaired a meeting to review the flood control and mitigation preparations in the district. Senior Superintendent of Police, Ashish Mishra was also present in the meeting.

The Deputy Commissioner stressed on utmost coordination among line departments and formulating an efficient plan to ensure prompt response to any flood-like situation in the district. He directed the officers to remain in a state of readiness by mobilizing all men and machinery on the ground, particularly at vulnerable spots to avoid any loss of human lives or property damage.

He laid emphasis on round-the-clock monitoring of vulnerable flood-prone spots and ensuring timely dissemination of information among the people viz flood alerts, evacuation points and centres, transportation plans etc so that people are updated about the evacuation and rescue plans well in time. He directed the concerned officers to focus on the identified vulnerable spots so that rapid action is ensured in case of need or to arrest embankment breaches, if any. The DC further directed the concerned departments to formulate rescue plans, identify safe control room locations and also prepare a backup plan. He asked for strengthening communication with the ground-level staff and people during any emergency so that people do not panic and get actual information about rescue measures and places available for the public. The CMO was directed to ensure that important machinery and medicines at health institutions are kept in safer places in all the health institutions. He was also asked to evolve proper SoPs to deal with the floods like the ‘Code Blue’ being followed in hospitals, where every concerned individual is fully acquainted with their responsibilities in times of emergency. Similarly, the Deputy Director FCS&CA Department was asked to make necessary arrangements to protect the food grains from any damage due to rising water levels. The department was asked to distribute rations for the month of May 2024 among the consumers of the district in advance in the wake of the inclement weather predictions. Likewise, SMC, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Irrigation, SRTC, State Motor Garages and other line departments were directed to ensure all flood mitigation.

Additional Deputy Commissioner, Syed Ahmad Kataria, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Dr Khalid Hussain Malik, Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad, Superintending Engineers of Hydraulic, Mechanical Irrigation, R&B, Chief Medical Officer, Deputy Directors of Tourism, FCS&CA, SRTC, State Motor Garages, Officers from Irrigation & Flood Control and other concerned departments were present in the meeting.

Rains lashed Valley on the third consecutive day, prompting authorities to shut down the schools in different districts. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir announced the closure of all schools on Tuesday. Due to incessant rains, the Srinagar-Jammu highway and other roads also remained closed for the traffic on Monday.

Several houses were damaged due to landslides in Ramban district. A boy also died in the fateful incident. Livestock were washed away due to flash floods in a Ramban hamlet. Lightning struck in a village in Ramban, leading to the death of four horses.

Due to consistent rainfall, scores of roads were waterlogged much to the inconvenience of the general public.

SRINAGAR — After a stretch of pleasant weather and abundant sunshine, the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has issued a forecast indicating an impending wet spell for Jammu and Kashmir on the 27th and 28th of this month.

According to the reports received here, the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has provided a detailed day-wise weather outlook for the Union Territory. It anticipates light to moderate rain or snowfall on Wednesday and Thursday.

Furthermore, the skies are expected to remain overcast on March 29th, with the likelihood of rain or snow at "isolated places".

In the lead-up to this anticipated wet weather pattern, minimum temperatures across Jammu and Kashmir experienced a rise last night, with only a few exceptions noted in certain areas.

As residents brace themselves for the forthcoming precipitation, authorities advise vigilance and preparedness to mitigate any potential adverse effects caused by the changing weather conditions.

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 — 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.