Significant snowfall and rainfall hit Jammu and Kashmir in the past 24 hours, causing disruptions in air and surface transport. The Border Roads Organisation is actively clearing snow and ice to reopen the Srinagar International Airport. The Srinagar-Jammu Highway closure led to no flight operations at the airport.
Traffic on the Srinagar-Leh Highway and Mughal Road remains suspended with no official word on resumption. The electricity supply network faced disruptions due to strong winds preceding the precipitation. Over 60% of the supply has been restored by the electricity corporation’s staff and engineers.
The Western Disturbance responsible for the weather has moved away from Jammu and Kashmir, as per the MET department. In the Jammu division, areas like Batote, Ramban, Udhampur, Bhaderwah, and Banihal received significant rainfall. Snow depths in the Valley were recorded at various locations.
Temperatures dropped significantly, with Srinagar at minus 1.4 degrees Celsius and Gulmarg at minus 12. The MET department predicts further temperature drops due to icy winds from snow-covered mountains. The recent snowfall, breaking a dry spell, is crucial for water reservoirs in Jammu and Kashmir.
Another Western Disturbance is expected to bring more rain and snow from January 26 to 28. These weather systems play a vital role in agriculture across India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. The region’s agricultural prospects rely on the activity of these disturbances.
