Jammu, 02-03-2024 : Reports indicate that adverse weather conditions, characterized by heavy rainfall in the plains and significant snowfall in the higher elevations, have necessitated the closure of the critical Jammu-Srinagar national highway. This closure comes as officials grapple with multiple challenges, including mudslides, landslides, and falling stones, particularly in the Ramban district, leading to blockages along various points of the highway.
An official statement issued by the traffic department urges caution, advising individuals to abstain from travel along NH-44 until weather conditions improve and authorities deem the thoroughfare safe for passage. Meanwhile, flight operations to and from the valley have remained operational despite the challenging weather conditions.
The inclement weather, which commenced on Friday, has persisted, with forecasts indicating continued moderate to heavy rainfall and snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday. Notably, Gulmarg, a renowned tourist destination nestled in the Baramulla district, has reported a substantial 38.1 cm of snowfall since the onset of the weather event.
The meteorological department has recorded rainfall measurements across various regions, including 20.5 mm in Srinagar, 45.4 mm in Qazigund, 27.5 mm in Pahalgam, 60.6 mm in Kupwara, 30.4 mm in Kokarnag, and 62.0 mm in Gulmarg over the past 24 hours. While night temperatures in certain parts of Kashmir have seen a slight rise, meteorological forecasts anticipate ongoing moderate rain and snow across most regions until late Saturday, followed by gradual improvement thereafter.
Projections suggest heavy to very heavy snowfall in select areas, particularly in north Kashmir, central and South Kashmir, as well as the Pirpanjal range of Jammu Division. Additionally, plains in Kashmir may experience moderate rain and snow, while Jammu plains, especially in Ramban, Udhampur, and Reasi districts, may witness heavy rainfall.
The weather department has also issued warnings regarding potential thunderstorms, lightning, and hailstorms, accompanied by gusty winds with speeds of 30–40 KMPH in certain areas. However, significant weather activity is not anticipated until March 10, with isolated instances of light rain and snowfall expected on the nights of March 6–7.
Considering the substantial snowfall in middle and higher elevations, travelers and tourists are advised to plan their journeys prudently and adhere to traffic police advisories. Furthermore, residents in hilly regions are cautioned against venturing into avalanche-prone and sloping areas and are urged to heed avalanche warnings and advisories due to the looming risk of landslides, mudslides, and falling stones in various locations.
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