Fresh Snowfall Hits Kashmir’s High Altitudes; Rains Lash Plains | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Several high-altitude areas of Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Doodhpathri and other upper reaches, received fresh snowfall on Sunday, while the plains, including the summer capital Srinagar, experienced heavy rainfall.

Snowfall at the Zojila Pass forced the closure of the Srinagar–Leh national highway, officials said. Upper reaches of Gulmarg, including Apharwat and Kongdoori bowls, as well as Pir Ki Gali along the Mughal Road in Shopian district and the Sonamarg–Zojila axis, recorded fresh snow, continuing into the afternoon.

The rains in the valley plains brought down daytime temperatures significantly, officials added.

The Meteorological Department has forecast erratic weather conditions across Jammu and Kashmir until March 20. Intermittent light to moderate rain or snowfall in higher reaches is expected through Monday morning, with isolated brief spells of rain or snow likely on Tuesday.

From March 18 to 20, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy, with intermittent rain or snow at many places, primarily during night or morning hours. Another wet spell is forecast for March 24-25, with light rain or snow in higher areas at scattered locations. Thunderstorms and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph are also possible at a few places on Sunday and Monday.

The Meteorological Department has issued advisories for travellers, transporters and the general public to plan cautiously while travelling in higher reaches and over important passes. Farmers have been advised to suspend field operations during March 15- 20, due to adverse weather conditions.