Jammu and Kashmir to see rain, snowfall over next three days

Jammu and Kashmir is likely to experience a fresh spell of unsettled weather over the next three days, with rain expected in several areas and light snowfall possible in the higher reaches. The weather is forecast to improve after October 15, with predominantly dry conditions expected to return from October 16, according to the latest weather updates.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), in a warning issued on Tuesday, forecast thunderstorms, lightning and squally weather for October 13. It also issued a warning of heavy rainfall for October 14. The department has listed no further warnings for the Union Territory from October 15 to 19.

According to the forecast issued by the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, the wet spell is expected to continue intermittently between October 13 and 15 under the influence of a Western Disturbance. Light to moderate rain is likely at many places, while the higher reaches may receive light snowfall.

The precipitation is expected to occur in spells, with breaks between showers, rather than as continuous rainfall throughout the day. This means that weather conditions may change during the forecast period, with wet conditions followed by temporary breaks.

The changing weather pattern is also likely to keep daytime temperatures below normal during the initial phase of the spell. This is expected to bring a noticeable change in conditions across the Kashmir Valley and adjoining areas.

For October 16 and 17, the forecast indicates generally improved weather across Jammu and Kashmir. However, brief showers cannot be ruled out at isolated places, particularly in the higher reaches during the afternoon or evening.

Predominantly dry weather is expected to prevail from October 18 to 22. Even during this period, isolated brief showers may occur at one or two places, according to the extended forecast.

The expected improvement after October 15 is likely to provide a window of relatively stable weather for outdoor activities and agricultural operations. However, local conditions may vary, particularly in mountainous areas where weather can change during the wet spell.

Farmers have been advised to safeguard harvested crops, including apples and paddy. They have also been asked to ensure the safe storage of these crops in view of the possibility of rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds during the initial phase of the forecast period.

People, particularly those travelling to the higher reaches, have been advised to remain attentive to official weather updates. The IMD’s warning for October 14 specifically highlights the possibility of heavy rainfall, while its subsequent outlook points towards a gradual return to drier conditions.

The forecast remains subject to revision as the weather system evolves. People have been advised to follow updates issued by the Meteorological Centre Srinagar and the IMD.