Srinagar: Renowned meteorologist and former Director of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, Sonam Lotus, said that there is no forecast of heavy snowfall or rainfall in Kashmir, and weather conditions are likely to improve from Thursday onwards.
Lotus said that while light rain is expected in several parts of the Valley from tonight till tomorrow morning, higher reaches of Kashmir may experience light to moderate snowfall during this period.
“Plain areas are not expected to receive snowfall, though light rain is likely in some places. However, the hilly regions of Kashmir may witness light to moderate snowfall, with some areas possibly receiving up to 5–6 inches,” said Sonam Lotus.
He added that although daytime temperatures will improve as the weather clears, night and early morning temperatures are expected to drop further due to colder winds and clearer skies.
“The minimum temperature will drop during the night and early morning hours, but daytime temperatures will slightly improve once the weather clears,” Lotus said.
Advising residents and travelers, the meteorologist cautioned against traveling to higher reaches during this brief spell of rain and snow.
“People planning to visit higher reaches should remain cautious, as slippery roads and poor visibility may affect travel,” he said.
Sonam Lotus further mentioned that from Thursday weather conditions will start improving gradually across most parts of Jammu and Kashmir, bringing clearer skies and better visibility.
“Overall, there is no major weather disturbance in sight. The weather is expected to remain largely dry from Thursday onward,” Lotus added.
Meanwhile Gurez Valley in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district witnessed a fresh spell of snowfall on Tuesday evening, marking the season’s first significant snow in the area.
Local residents said that 2–3 inches of snow accumulated within an hour, transforming the high-altitude valley into a white landscape. The snowfall began around evening hours and intensified briefly before tapering off.
Officials confirmed that Razdan Pass and other upper reaches of Gurez also received light snowfall. However, the Bandipora–Gurez road, which serves as the only link to the valley, remains open for now, with no official advisory on its closure.
As per reports at 6 p.m., Razdan Top had recorded 2 inches of snow, while Sonamarg, Baltal, and Zojila Pass reported light snowfall of about 1–2 cm. Light snowfall was also observed over Tulail, Sinthan Top, Peer Ki Gali, and Gulmarg, a weather official said. (KINS)
‘No heavy snow or rain forecast in Kashmir’
