Srinagar, May 31, : Fresh rain and snowfall have been reported across the Kashmir Valley since Friday, affecting areas like Gulmarg, Gurez Valley, and Zojila Pass. The weather department predicts this wet spell to continue for three days. Srinagar’s maximum temperature on Saturday is expected to reach 16 degrees centigrade, the lowest day temperature in May. This comes after temperatures had recently touched 34 degrees in the third week of May.
Authorities have temporarily closed the Gurez-Bandipora road following fresh snowfall in the Razdan Pass area. The precautionary measure was taken to ensure the safety of commuters amid slippery and hazardous road conditions.
Officials stated that the road will remain shut until further notice, with snow clearance operations underway. Travelers have been advised to avoid the route until the situation improves. Heavy rainfall and hailstorm lashed Jammu & Kashmir’s Ramban district on Saturday, causing disruptions in the region. Meanwhile, parts of Srinagar city witnessed moderate to heavy rain, affecting daily activities.
However, tourists in Srinagar welcomed the rain. A vistor said, “The rainy weather here feels refreshing and wonderful. We’re visiting as tourists, and just a few days ago, the heat here was almost as intense as in Uttar Pradesh. But since arriving, this cool, rainy climate has been a delightful change. Dal Lake looks stunning in this weather, and the locals seem thrilled with the shift. Rain is so vital–it brings such relief. We’ve heard it gets hot for a couple of days, followed by rain, and luckily, our visit has perfectly coincided with this beautiful weather.” Meanwhile, hailstorms and heavy rainfall battered Jammu & Kashmir’s Ramban district.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast widespread light to moderate rain and thunderstorms across the Kashmir Division on Friday, with a warning for isolated heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph.
It predicted that Srinagar will witness cloudy skies with light rain and thunderstorms, with temperatures ranging between a maximum of 24°C and a minimum of 11°C.
