Srinagar, Dec 17: After two days of challenging weather conditions in the Kashmir region, the Meteorological Department forecasts predominantly dry and clear weather until December 22.
Director of Meteorology, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, reported that in the past 24 hours, light to moderate rain occurred in the plains, while light snowfall covered higher reaches, including Gulmarg, Gurez, Machil, Tanghdar, Mughal Road, Sinthan Pass, and other areas.
“Presently, many areas are experiencing partly to generally cloudy conditions, with light snow over Sonamarg and adjacent regions,” stated Dr. Mukhtar.
From December 17th to 22nd, the forecast predicts generally dry weather. Similarly, from December 23rd, there is a possibility of a cloudy forecast with the chance of light snow over isolated higher reaches. Overall, no significant weather activity is expected until December 28th.
On Sunday, Srinagar recorded a minimum of minus 0.5 degrees Celsius, Qazigund recorded a low of minus 0.0 degrees Celsius, and Pahalgam settled at minus 1.5 degrees Celsius. Kupwara recorded 1.1 degrees Celsius, Kokernag reached a minimum temperature of minus 0.8 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg recorded minus 5.8 degrees Celsius, Banihal recorded 0.6 degrees Celsius, and Jammu experienced 8.8 degrees Celsius.
Following recent snowfall, snow clearance operations were completed by 109RCC Beacon Kupwara on Sadhna Pass, Tangdhar, Keran, and Machil Roads. The historic Mughal Road remained closed for the second consecutive day due to fresh snowfall, with ongoing snow clearance operations near Pir Ki Gali by the Mechanical and Hospital Engineering Department Kashmir.
Meanwhile, traffic movement on the Srinagar-Jammu highway was normal on Sunday. The traffic department stated that, subject to dry weather, traffic on the Srinagar-Jammu highway will ply from both sides on Monday. Commuters are advised to follow lane discipline.
On the Sonamarg-Leh road, vehicular movement shall be allowed from both sides, with special arrangements in place for the security forces’ convoy to ensure minimal disturbance to civilian traffic.
