By Abid Bashir
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31 Mar 2026

Prolonged wet spell to grip J&K till April 10

MeT flags landslide risks Advisory issued to farmers, travellers

Srinagar, Mar 30: Jammu and Kashmir is heading into a prolonged phase of unsettled weather, with the Meteorological Department forecasting intermittent rain, snowfall and gusty winds across the Union Territory till April 10, raising concerns for agriculture, travel, and daily life. Director of the MeT Centre Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, said the current spell will continue to impact most parts of the region with light to moderate rain in the plains and snowfall in higher reaches. Thunderstorms and gusty winds, with speeds touching 40–50 kmph, are also likely to accompany the precipitation, particularly during peak activity hours. He noted that while the ongoing wet spell is expected to ease gradually after the evening of March 30, the overall weather pattern remains unstable due to successive western disturbances affecting the region. Between March 31 and April 2, conditions are likely to stabilise to a certain extent, offering a brief but crucial window of relatively dry weather. During this period, only isolated and brief spells of light rain or snow are expected, mainly

in the late afternoon or evening hours. From April 3 to 4, cloud cover is expected to increase again, with scattered precipitation and gusty winds returning to several areas. This will be followed by a phase of partly cloudy skies between April 5 and 7, providing temporary respite, although weather activity cannot be completely ruled out. The MeT Department has warned of another active spell from April 8 to 10, during which scattered to fairly widespread light rain and snowfall is expected. Some locations, particularly in the higher reaches of North and Central Kashmir, may receive moderate snowfall, while plains could witness moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. Authorities have expressed concern over the possibility of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas, especially along hilly roads and highways. Continuous wet conditions may also lead to localized waterlogging in low-lying areas and temporary disruptions in surface transport. Travellers, particularly those planning to move along highways or towards higher altitude destinations, have been advised to remain updated with weather and traffic advisories. Sudden

changes in weather, reduced visibility during rain or snowfall, and strong winds could pose risks, especially during evening hours. The fluctuating weather pattern is significant for the farming community at a crucial time of seasonal agricultural activities. Experts have advised farmers to utilise the relatively dry period between March 31 and April 2 to carry out sowing, spraying and other essential fieldwork. At the same time, orchardists and farmers have been cautioned about potential damage from hailstorms, excess moisture, and strong winds, which could affect blossoming crops and early-stage produce. Day temperatures are expected to remain below normal during active weather phases due to cloud cover and precipitation, while nights may stay relatively cool. However, brief improvements in the weather may lead to slight temperature fluctuations. Overall, the region is likely to experience a dynamic mix of weather conditions over the next ten days, requiring close monitoring and preparedness. The MeT Department continues to keep a close watch on developments and will issue timely updates as the situation evolves.