Srinagar, Oct 2: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued a detailed weather advisory warning of a strong Western Disturbance set to impact Jammu and Kashmir and neighbouring regions between October 4 and 7, potentially bringing widespread rain, snow, and thunderstorms. The weather system, expected to intensify from the night of October 5 to the morning of October 7, may result in significant weather events across both plains and higher reaches, prompting authorities to issue safety and preparedness alerts.
According to the advisory communicated to divisional authorities, the approaching disturbance will likely bring widespread light to moderate rainfall across the Union Territory, with the plains of the Kashmir Valley expected to experience moderate to heavy showers. The Jammu division, particularly isolated pockets, could see heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and hailstorms. Strong gusty winds ranging from 40 to 50 km/h, and possibly touching 60 to 70 km/h in some places, are also forecast during the peak activity period.
The higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir are bracing for moderate to heavy snowfall. Areas such as Anantnag–Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg–Zojila, Bandipora–Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, and Kupwara–Sadhna Pass are expected to receive significant snow accumulation, while middle-altitude zones may witness light snowfall. This early spell of snow is expected to mark the beginning of the winter season in the upper Himalayas, with a sharp drop in day temperatures anticipated across the region.
Authorities have warned of likely disruptions to surface transportation, especially along vital highways such as the Jammu–Srinagar and Srinagar–Leh National Highways. Road connectivity to hilly and mountainous regions could also be impacted due to slippery conditions and poor visibility. The possibility of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in slope-prone areas has been highlighted as a major concern, and travelers have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly.
The advisory has also raised caution over rising water levels in rivers, streams, and local water bodies, which could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas. Residents in flood-prone zones have been urged to remain vigilant and follow official updates closely during the forecast period.
Farmers have been specifically advised to complete harvesting and other field operations by October 4 and avoid agricultural activities between October 5 and 7 to minimize crop damage. Horticulturists and orchard owners have also been urged to take protective measures to safeguard fruit crops and prevent damage from strong winds and hail.
Officials stressed that the advisory aims to ensure public awareness and preparedness ahead of the weather system’s arrival. Travelers, trekkers, and tourists have been requested to avoid venturing into high-altitude and avalanche-prone areas during the forecast period. Authorities are coordinating with district administrations and disaster management agencies to ensure readiness for any potential disruptions caused by the Western Disturbance.