Srinagar, Mar 31: Higher reaches of Kashmir received fresh snowfall while plains witnessed widespread rainfall on Tuesday, leading to a drop in temperatures and disruption in road connectivity, officials said.
Snowfall was reported from Tulail Valley, Razdan Pass and Sadhna Top in Kupwara district, while several parts of the Valley recorded moderate to heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours.
According to data available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) Baramulla recorded the highest rainfall at 73 mm, followed by Poonch in Jammu region at 68.5 mm. Other major stations included Qazigund (48.6 mm), Kupwara (40.8 mm), Kulgam (42.2 mm), and Srinagar (31.6 mm). Jammu city recorded 12 mm of rainfall.
The Meteorological Centre Srinagar said erratic weather conditions are expected to continue till April 10, with intermittent spells of rain and snow likely across the Union Territory.
“Between March 31 and April 2, brief spells of light rain or snow may occur at isolated places, particularly towards late afternoons. From April 3 to 4, generally cloudy conditions with light to moderate rain or snowfall at many places are expected, accompanied by thunder and gusty winds,” an official said.
The advisory further said partly cloudy conditions are likely between April 5 and 7, while fresh spells of light to moderate rain and snow in higher reaches are expected from April 8 to 10.
Authorities have also warned of thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph at isolated places, particularly during late afternoon hours on March 31, April 3 and 4.
Meanwhile, the Traffic Police Headquarters issued an advisory stating that the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained blocked for several hours due to landslides and shooting stones between Ramban and Banihal.
Although the road was later partially restored, commuters have been advised to avoid travel during night hours due to the risk of shooting stones. Passenger Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) are being allowed from both sides under regulated conditions, subject to weather and road status.
The Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road remains closed for vehicular movement towards Kargil due to fresh snowfall, with only stranded vehicles being allowed after clearance by road maintenance agencies.
Similarly, the Mughal Road connecting Shopian and Poonch has been closed due to snow accumulation.
Meanwhile, the Bandipora–Gurez road via Razdan Pass has also been closed following fresh snowfall, officials said. Traffic on the nearly 85-kilometre stretch has been suspended till further orders.
Officials said the Sinthan-Anantnag-Kishtwar road also remains closed following administrative orders due to unsafe conditions.
Passengers and transport operators have been advised to prefer daytime travel on the highway and strictly follow lane discipline to avoid congestion and accidents.
The administration has urged people to check the latest traffic and weather updates before undertaking journeys, warning of possible landslides and shooting stones at vulnerable locations.
Farmers have been advised to resume agricultural activities between March 31 and April 2, when weather conditions are expected to remain relatively stable.
Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored and necessary measures are in place to ensure public safety.
Furthermore, the Army and police on Tuesday rescued 34 students and staff trapped in a government school in Watergam area of Baramulla district after flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall inundated the premises, officials said.
The rescue teams evacuated 30 students and four teachers from the hostel after water levels in a nearby nallah rose suddenly.
Officials said the swift joint operation averted a major tragedy, and all those rescued are safe. (KNO)
