Widespread heavy snowfall overnight ended an extended dry spell across Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, transforming the landscape and providing relief from a persistent cold, arid period.
Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the snowfall was widespread, with accumulation varying significantly across districts.
He reported key snowfall accumulations, including:
Central Kashmir: The highest accumulations were recorded in Budgam District. Pakherpora received 1.5 to 2 feet of snow, while Charar-i-Sharief saw 1.5 feet. The Srinagar airport area measured 3-4 inches, though central parts of the city received minimal accumulation.
South Kashmir: Shopian District was heavily impacted, with its plains receiving 1.5 to 2.5 feet and higher reaches witnessing 2.5 to 4 feet. In Pulwama District, areas such as Drabgam and Rajpora each recorded 1.5 feet.
North Kashmir: Gulmarg reported 2 feet of snow. Kupwara District saw substantial falls, including 2.5 feet in Hachmarg and 2 feet each in Dedikote and Tangdhar. Higher elevations of the Karnah Valley (above 2000 meters) received between 2.5 and 4 feet.
Jammu Region and Ladakh: The snowfall extended into the Jammu division, with Loran Mandi in Poonch receiving 7-8 inches and Banihal recording over 5 inches. In Ladakh, the Suru Valley of Kargil saw 3-4 inches.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread light to moderate rain and snow across Jammu and Kashmir for Friday, with the possibility of heavy precipitation at isolated places.
Meteorological officials stated that this weather activity is expected to peak during the day. Another western disturbance is likely to affect the region around January 26.
This snowfall follows spells of rain and strong winds on Thursday across parts of the Valley, including Srinagar, which caused incidents of uprooted trees and led to precautionary power cuts in several areas.
Following the snowfall, major highways connecting the Kashmir valley have been shut due to fresh snow accumulation.
Air services have also been affected, with around 17 flights cancelled. (KNS)
