The Jammu and Kashmir government issued a weather advisory warning of widespread rain and snowfall across the Union Territory as two Western Disturbances are likely to affect the region in quick succession from January 22 to January 28.
According to the advisory issued by the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, citing inputs from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Srinagar, the first Western Disturbance is expected to impact J&K from January 22 to 24, with peak activity on January 23, while the second system will affect the region from the night of January 26 to January 28, with peak activity on January 27.
The advisory said widespread light to moderate rainfall and snowfall is likely across J&K, with heavy rain/snow at isolated places, especially during the peak activity days.
During the first system, heavy snowfall/rainfall is most likely over the Pir Panjal range, including the Chenab Valley of Jammu division, and middle and higher reaches of South Kashmir, particularly in Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam and Shopian. Other vulnerable areas include Pir Ki Gali, Gulmarg, Sonamarg–Zojila axis, Bandipora–Razdan Pass, Kupwara–Sadhna Pass, and the districts of Doda, Udhampur, Reasi, Kishtwar and Ramban.
For the second Western Disturbance, moderate to heavy rainfall/snowfall is likely over the Pir Panjal range, including the Chenab Valley, and middle and higher reaches of South Kashmir, the advisory added.
The government warned of possible disruption of surface and air transport, including the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway and other major roads in middle and higher reaches. Travelers, tourists and transporters have been advised to plan their movement accordingly.
People living in snow-bound areas have been advised to avoid venturing into avalanche-prone and slippery areas, while farmers have been asked to suspend irrigation, fertilizer application and chemical spray activities during the period. The advisory also cautioned about the possibility of landslides, mudslides and gusty winds (40–60 kmph) at vulnerable locations.
Authorities urged residents to remain alert, follow official advisories, avoid unnecessary travel to higher reaches and keep essential supplies and medicines ready. In case of emergencies, people can contact the Unified Emergency Helpline (112) or the UT Emergency Operations Centre, it said.
