SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to experience rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds at several places until October 15, with light snowfall possible over higher reaches, while predominantly dry weather is expected to return from October 18, according to the latest meteorological forecast.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), in its warning issued on Tuesday, forecast thunderstorms, lightning and squally conditions on October 13, followed by the possibility of heavy rainfall on October 14. No further weather warnings have been issued for the Union Territory for October 15 to 19.
According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, the wet spell is expected to continue intermittently over the next three days under the influence of a Western Disturbance. Light to moderate rain may occur at many places, while higher reaches could receive light snowfall.
The precipitation is likely to occur in spells, with intervals of improved weather in between. Daytime temperatures may also remain below normal during the initial phase of the wet spell.
Weather conditions are expected to improve on October 16 and 17, although brief showers cannot be ruled out at isolated places, particularly over higher reaches during the afternoon and evening.
The extended forecast points to predominantly dry conditions from October 18 to 22, with isolated brief showers remaining possible at one or two places.
Meanwhile, farmers have been advised to protect harvested crops, particularly apples and paddy, and arrange for their proper storage in view of the forecast rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds.
People travelling to higher reaches have also been advised to remain alert to changing weather conditions and follow advisories issued by the IMD and Meteorological Centre Srinagar.
