Rain and Snowfall brings much-needed respite to J&K: Tourist destinations in Kashmir receive fresh snow, delight visitors
Jammu-Srinagar National Highway closed due to shooting stones at various places between Nashri and NAVYNG and Mud Slush at Mehd Ramban
Srinagar, Feb 27 : The Kashmir Valley has finally received much-needed precipitation in the form of rain and snowfall, bringing relief from the prolonged dry spell that has gripped the region for months.
Parts of the Jammu division also received rainfall, while the Jammu and Srinagar National Highway witnessed heavy rainfall, which triggered shooting stones at several places between Nasri and Navyung Tunnel, leading to the closure of the highway.
The since late last evening, Srinagar and other plain areas of the valley have been experiencing light rainfall and intermittent snowfall, leading to a drop in temperatures and an overall improvement in weather conditions.
The higher reaches of the valley, including the famous tourist destinations of Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam, witnessed fresh snowfall, much to the delight of visitors.
Other areas such as Razdan Top, Gurez in Bandipora, Sadhna Top, Handwara, Kupwara, and Mughal Road in Shopian were also covered in a fresh layer of snow.
High-altitude locations like Zojila Pass, Sinthan Top, and the revered Amarnath Cave experienced heavy snowfall, leading to the closure of several inter-district roads, including the strategic Srinagar-Leh highway. The Meteorological Department has forecast continued wet weather for the next two to three days, with the possibility of heavy snowfall or rainfall in certain areas.
Officials confirmed that light to moderate rain or snow is expected at most places until Friday noon, after which the weather conditions are likely to improve. Despite the disruptions, this spell of precipitation has raised hopes of mitigating the 80% deficit recorded in January and February.
Meanwhile, parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Ramban, Banihal, and Qazigund, have been experiencing continuous rainfall. According to the Meteorological Department, the highest rainfall till the afternoon of Thursday was recorded in Nowgam and Handwara at 46.6 mm, followed by Bandipora at 43.0 mm, Wular at 37.0 mm, and Kokernag at 38.6 mm. Other notable rainfall figures include Sopore (33.0 mm), Asham (33.5 mm), and Tangmarg (36.2 mm). Gulmarg, a hotspot for winter sports, received 23.8 mm of rain along with 20.0 cm of fresh snowfall. Srinagar recorded 4.4 mm of rain, while Qazigund and Pahalgam registered 9.6 mm and 11.2 mm, respectively.
In Jammu region, Banihal received the highest rainfall at 76.2 mm, followed by Udhampur (12.4 mm), Poonch (15.0 mm), and Kishtwar (9.0 mm). However, Jammu city saw minimal rainfall at just 0.1 mm, with places like RS Pura and Burmal remaining dry. In Ladakh, Leh recorded a trace of precipitation, while data from Kargil and Drass was unavailable.
Authorities have warned of potential disruptions to transportation due to the ongoing wet weather. They have advised travelers to check with the traffic control units in Srinagar and Jammu before planning journeys along the national highway or to tourist destinations. There is also a high risk of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas, prompting officials to urge caution for those traveling in the region.
Looking ahead, the Meteorological Department predicts cloudy conditions with light to moderate rain or snow at various locations until February 28, with the possibility of improvement from the afternoon of that day. From March 1-2, isolated to scattered rain or snow may occur, followed by a more widespread spell of precipitation on March 3. However, from March 4-8, the weather is expected to remain generally dry, bringing a much-needed break from the recent wet conditions.
The fresh snowfall has not only revived Kashmir’s winter charm but also brought cheer to the tourism sector, which had been struggling due to the prolonged dry spell. With more snow forecasted, winter sports enthusiasts and tourists are expected to flock to the region, providing a boost to the local economy.
The highway remained open throughout the day, it was closed for vehicular movement from both sides late in the evening due to mud slush at Mehad Ramban and shooting stones at various places.
Efforts were underway to clear the debris, but the road remained impassable. Officials advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and journeys during the night on NH-44.
