SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is set to witness a prolonged spell of unstable weather till April 10, with the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar forecasting multiple phases of rain, snowfall and thunderstorms across the Union Territory.
According to officials, generally cloudy conditions with intermittent light to moderate rain and snowfall are expected at many places from the afternoon of April 3 till the evening of April 4. This phase may be accompanied by thunderstorms, hailstorms and gusty winds with speeds reaching 40–50 km/h at isolated locations, while higher reaches are likely to receive moderate to heavy snowfall.
A brief improvement in weather conditions is expected on April 5 and 6, with partly cloudy skies and chances of light rain at isolated places. However, officials said the relief will be temporary, as another spell of light to moderate rain and snowfall, along with thunderstorms and gusty winds, is likely between April 7 and April 9.
The Meteorological Department has issued an advisory urging residents and authorities to remain cautious during the active weather phases. Officials warned of possible landslides and shooting stones, particularly along vulnerable stretches and hilly routes.
Low-lying areas may also experience waterlogging due to intermittent rainfall, potentially affecting urban mobility and drainage systems.
Farmers have been advised to suspend agricultural activities on April 3 and 4 due to the likelihood of rain and hailstorms that could damage crops or disrupt sowing.
Travellers and transporters have been urged to plan their journeys carefully, especially on routes prone to landslides and weather-related disruptions. The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remains particularly vulnerable to shooting stones and temporary closures during such conditions.
Residents in higher altitude areas have been advised to prepare for possible snowfall accumulation, while those in the plains have been cautioned about thunderstorms and strong winds.
