Meteorological Department forecasts moderate rain and snow as strong Western Disturbance approaches, warns of travel disruptions
Srinagar, January 16: The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecast widespread snowfall and rain across Jammu and Kashmir beginning on 22nd January, as a strong Western Disturbance is expected to influence the region’s weather, bringing a significant winter spell.
According to the MeT, most parts of the Union Territory are likely to experience light to moderate rain and snowfall between 22nd and 24th January, with certain higher reaches expected to receive moderate to heavy snow during this period.
“Under the influence of this system, widespread rain, snow is most likely to occur during 22nd and 23rd January,” said Sonam Lotus, Director of the Meteorological Department. He added that the weather conditions will be more pronounced over the Jammu Division, Pir Panjal range, and south Kashmir.
The forecast suggests that moderate snowfall is likely over the plains of south Kashmir, while higher altitudes in regions such as northwestern, northern and central Kashmir may witness heavier snowfall. Moderate rainfall is also expected in the plains of the Jammu region.
Officials have cautioned that this active weather pattern may temporarily disrupt surface and air transportation, particularly on major roads and highways including the Srinagar–Jammu national highway. They also highlighted a chance of landslides in vulnerable hilly stretches due to precipitation and unstable conditions.
MeT has urged residents, motorists, and travellers to stay updated with weather advisories, prepare for sudden changes in road conditions, and take appropriate precautions during the forecast period.
Earlier forecasts had already predicted scattered snow and rain from 19th January, with chances of light snow at higher elevations and cloudy conditions across the plains.
With winter temperatures remaining below normal and the chill of the season intensifying, this approaching spell could bring one of the more widespread snowfall events of the season so far.
According to the MeT, most parts of the Union Territory are likely to experience light to moderate rain and snowfall between 22nd and 24th January, with certain higher reaches expected to receive moderate to heavy snow during this period.
“Under the influence of this system, widespread rain, snow is most likely to occur during 22nd and 23rd January,” said Sonam Lotus, Director of the Meteorological Department. He added that the weather conditions will be more pronounced over the Jammu Division, Pir Panjal range, and south Kashmir.
The forecast suggests that moderate snowfall is likely over the plains of south Kashmir, while higher altitudes in regions such as northwestern, northern and central Kashmir may witness heavier snowfall. Moderate rainfall is also expected in the plains of the Jammu region.
Officials have cautioned that this active weather pattern may temporarily disrupt surface and air transportation, particularly on major roads and highways including the Srinagar–Jammu national highway. They also highlighted a chance of landslides in vulnerable hilly stretches due to precipitation and unstable conditions.
MeT has urged residents, motorists, and travellers to stay updated with weather advisories, prepare for sudden changes in road conditions, and take appropriate precautions during the forecast period.
Earlier forecasts had already predicted scattered snow and rain from 19th January, with chances of light snow at higher elevations and cloudy conditions across the plains.
With winter temperatures remaining below normal and the chill of the season intensifying, this approaching spell could bring one of the more widespread snowfall events of the season so far.
Comments
Post a Comment