Fresh Spell of Rain, Snow Predicted in J&K as Temperatures Plummet
Srinagar, Feb 21, KNT: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Srinagar has forecasted a fresh spell of light to moderate rain and snow across Jammu and Kashmir from February 25 to 28, with isolated heavy snowfall likely in both Kashmir and Jammu divisions. The approaching weather system is expected to intensify cold conditions and may impact daily life, prompting authorities to advise residents to stay updated with official forecasts.
Over the past 24 hours, temperatures across J&K have dropped sharply, with daytime temperatures plunging by 6 to 14 degrees Celsius in several areas. In the Kashmir division, the mercury saw a significant decline, with Srinagar recording 10.7°C, Pahalgam at 4.8°C, Kupwara at 4.7°C, and Gulmarg, the coldest, at 1.0°C. Similar conditions prevailed in the Jammu division, where the highest temperature was 15.8°C in Kathua, followed by Mirpur at 15.5°C and Jammu at 14.8°C. In higher reaches, temperatures dropped even further, with Banihal and Bhaderwah registering 5.2°C and 6.3°C, respectively.
Night temperatures also dipped across scattered parts of the region. The coldest night in Kashmir was recorded in Gulmarg at -5.6°C, followed by Pahalgam at -2.4°C and Kukernag at -1.2°C. In the Jammu region, Banihal and Bhaderwah saw temperatures drop to -2.4°C, while Batote recorded -0.5°C.
The sudden dip in temperatures has been accompanied by fairly widespread precipitation over the past 24 hours, adding to the cold wave gripping the region. IMD has warned that the upcoming spell of rain and snow could impact transportation and essential services, especially in higher reaches prone to heavy snowfall.
Authorities have urged people to take necessary precautions and stay informed as the fresh system moves in, bringing another round of wet and chilly weather to Jammu and Kashmir.
