Snow blankets Razdan Pass, hailstorm hits Kashmir plains

Srinagar, May 23: Fresh snowfall was recorded at Razdan Pass and other higher reaches of north Kashmir on Saturday, while rain and hailstorm lashed several plains areas across the Valley, officials said.

According to details, fresh snowfall was reported from Razdan Pass and upper reaches of Tulail Valley following a fresh spell of weather activity triggered by an active western disturbance affecting Jammu and Kashmir.

Rainfall was also recorded in several plains districts of the Valley during the day.

The details said a hailstorm accompanied by gusty winds hit parts of north Kashmir, causing damage to apple orchards, vegetable fields and standing crops.

Officials said reports of damage had been received from some affected villages and assessment teams would evaluate the losses. The weather activity also caused waterlogging in low-lying areas and affected traffic movement on several roads during heavy showers.

The Meteorological Department said weather conditions are likely to remain unstable over the next few days.

According to the forecast, generally dry weather is expected during the forenoon between May 23 and 25, with brief showers likely at scattered places towards late afternoon.

From May 26 to 28, weather is expected to remain mainly hot and dry across Jammu and Kashmir, while brief showers are likely at a few places between May 29 and 31.

The MeT department advised people, particularly those living in vulnerable and mountainous areas, to remain cautious during thunderstorms, gusty winds and hailstorm activity. —(KNO)