SRINAGAR: Higher reaches of Kashmir received fresh snowfall, while the plains, including Srinagar, experienced intermittent rain accompanied by gusty winds on Tuesday, leading to a drop in temperatures and disruption of normal life.
The adverse weather triggered multiple road closures across the region. The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), the only all-weather road link connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, was blocked at several locations due to landslides. Authorities said efforts are underway to clear debris and restore traffic.
The Bandipora–Gurez road was also affected, with heavy snowfall and landslides reported near Razdan Top, leaving several vehicles stranded. Officials said the district administration, along with teams from the Mechanical Engineering Department (MED) and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), launched a rescue operation and safely evacuated 22 vehicles carrying tourists and other passengers. Those stranded were provided necessary assistance, including medical aid.
In Baramulla district, a landslide in the Uri area also led to road blockage, prompting authorities to deploy men and machinery for clearance operations.
The Meteorological Department has forecast continued erratic weather conditions across the region till April 10. Officials said intermittent light to moderate rain in the plains and snowfall in higher reaches, accompanied by thunder and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph, was recorded, though gradual improvement is expected.
According to the forecast, brief spells of light rain or snow may occur at isolated places between March 31 and April 2, particularly during late afternoons. Generally cloudy conditions with scattered precipitation are expected on April 3 and 4, followed by partly cloudy weather from April 5 to 7. Fresh spells of light rain or snow are likely at scattered locations between April 8 and 10.
The MeT department has warned of moderate rainfall at some places and moderate snowfall over higher reaches of north and central Kashmir, along with thunder, lightning, and gusty winds. It also cautioned about the risk of landslides at vulnerable locations and advised travellers to follow traffic advisories.
Meanwhile, authorities in Ganderbal, Anantnag, and Kupwara districts have issued avalanche warnings in prone areas, urging residents to avoid unnecessary movement until conditions improve.
