Srinagar, Mar 28: The India Meteorological Department on Saturday forecast generally cloudy weather across Jammu and Kashmir with intermittent light to moderate rain and snowfall in higher reaches till March 30.
An official of the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that weather is expected to remain cloudy towards evening between March 28 and 30, with chances of rain and snow at most places.
Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph are also likely during this period.
On March 31, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy with brief spells of light rain or snow at scattered locations. Between April 1 and 2, conditions will range from partly to generally cloudy, with isolated spells of light rain. From April 3 to 4, similar conditions are expected, with light precipitation at scattered places.
For the period between April 5 and 7, the forecast indicates partly cloudy skies with light rain or snow at isolated locations.
The MeT department has issued an advisory warning of moderate snowfall over some higher reaches in North and Central Kashmir between the night of March 28 and March 30. It also cautioned about the possibility of landslides at vulnerable locations.
Farmers have been advised to suspend farm operations on March 29 and 30, while travellers have been asked to follow traffic advisories and plan their movement accordingly.
Meanwhile, data released by the MeT department showed Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 22.2°C, which is above normal, while Jammu registered a high of 29.6°C. No significant rainfall was recorded across most stations during the day.
The Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority issued an avalanche warning stating that a medium danger level avalanches are likely to occur above 2,400 metres in the districts of Bandipora and Ganderbal over the next 24 hours. The Authority advised residents, trekkers and travellers to remain alert and take necessary precautions.
It urged people to avoid venturing into high-altitude and avalanche-prone areas during this period and to strictly follow safety guidelines. (KNO)
