Rain, snowfall likely in higher reaches of J&K from March 18

Authorities have issued an advisory for travellers and transporters planning to move through the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to plan accordingly in view of the possibility of inclement weather from March 18 to 20.

The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar stated that intermittent light to moderate rain and snowfall are likely at many places during this period.

“Few higher reaches of Chenab Valley and south Kashmir may receive moderate to heavy snowfall. The weather will generally remain clear from March 21 to 25, but there is a possibility of light rain and snow over higher reaches from March 26 to 28,” the MeT said.

“Travellers, transporters and the general public travelling through higher reaches and important passes are advised to plan accordingly during March 18–20. There is also a possibility of thunder and gusty winds (40–50 kmph) at a few places during this period, along with chances of hailstorm at isolated locations,” the advisory added.

Farmers have also been advised to suspend all farm operations between March 18 and 20. Meanwhile, MeT officials in Leh stated that intermittent rain and snowfall are likely at scattered places in Ladakh, especially in Kargil district, from March 18 to 21. They also warned of the possible closure of the Zojila Pass, which connects the Kashmir valley with Ladakh, on March 18.

Officials in Ladakh further cautioned that rain and snowfall could trigger landslides and avalanches.