Srinagar, Dec 01: After three days of inclement weather in the Kashmir region, the Meteorological Department has predicted predominantly dry and clear weather conditions till December 10.
The recent spell of challenging weather has led to disruptions, with traffic remaining suspended on the Srinagar-Leh highway and Mughal Road for the third consecutive day on Friday.
Director MeT, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, said that during the past 24 hours saw light to moderate rain in plains and light snowfall in middle and higher reaches. Presently, many areas are experiencing partly to generally cloudy conditions, with light snow over Sonamarg and adjacent regions.
He anticipated significant improvement in weather conditions by afternoon, leading to dry weather across most places in Jammu and Kashmir.
MeT officials reported fresh snowfall in various areas, including Keran and Machil in Kupwara, Gulmarg, Minamarg, Sonamarg, Pir Ki Gali, Gurez higher reaches, Sinthan Top, and Sinthan Top pass. Additionally, districts like Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Reasi, Poonch, and Ramban witnessed rains.
The dip in night temperatures across the valley has been noticeable, with Gulmarg recording the lowest temperature at minus 1.8 degrees Celsius and a maximum temperature of 10.0°C on Friday.
The historic Mughal Road has remained closed for the second consecutive day due to fresh snowfall, and traffic movement remains suspended on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri road due to snow accumulation.
A traffic police official advised travelers to avoid the Mughal Road, where repair and maintenance work are underway. Meanwhile, on the Srinagar-Leh Road, clearance work is ongoing, and traffic will resume upon receiving the green signal from BEACON authorities. Despite these challenges, traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is normal, with vehicles allowed to move from both sides.
The Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority issued an avalanche warning for Kupwara in the next 24 hours, urging residents to take precautions and avoid avalanche-prone areas until further notice.
Avalanche with a low danger level is likely to occur above 2,800 metres above sea level over Kupwara district in the next 24 hours,” JKDMA said.
The authorities also advised people living in these areas to take precautions and avoid venturing into the avalanche-prone areas until further orders.
“People living in these areas are advised to take precautions and avoid venturing in the avalanche-prone areas till further orders,” it added.
