Fresh snowfall blankets higher reaches; dry spell expected from October 17 till October 24
Srinagar, Oct 15 : Weather conditions across Kashmir are likely to improve from Friday, October 16, with the Meteorological Department forecasting largely dry weather over the subsequent days after an active western disturbance brought fresh snowfall to higher reaches and overnight rains to the plains.
A senior official at metrological department Srinagar said several higher reaches of the Valley received light to moderate snowfall, while plains, including Srinagar, witnessed overnight rainfall.
According to the forecast, light to moderate rain, with light snowfall over higher reaches, is likely at many places, accompanied by thunder, gusty winds and hailstorms at isolated locations till Thursday.
The weather is expected to remain generally dry on October 16, barring a brief spell of light rain at isolated places. Thereafter, largely dry conditions are likely to prevail across Jammu and Kashmir till October 24, offering relief from the recent wet spell.
The fresh precipitation has transformed the higher reaches into snow-covered landscapes, with popular tourist destinations, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg, witnessing a renewed rush of visitors.
Pahalgam and its adjoining areas in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district received overnight snowfall, while intermittent snow continued in Gulmarg, Sonamarg, the Zojila axis, Razdan Top and Tulail in north Kashmir’s Gurez.
The snowfall has added to the seasonal charm of Kashmir’s tourist destinations, with visitors seen enjoying the fresh snow, clicking photographs and recording videos amid the picturesque surroundings.
Tourist activity in Gulmarg has reportedly picked up significantly, with footfall said to have doubled amid the fresh snowfall.
Meanwhile, the fresh snowfall and slippery road conditions forced the closure of the Mughal Road, disrupting movement along the strategic inter-regional route.
With another day of unsettled weather forecast, travellers have been advised to remain cautious in snow-affected areas and check road conditions before embarking on journeys. The expected improvement from Friday is likely to bring relief to residents and visitors, although weather conditions in higher reaches may remain locally variable. (KNS)
