After heavy rains lashed parts of Jammu and Kashmir, the weather situation has now shifted dramatically. According to news agency PTI, fresh snowfall has blanketed several famous tourist resorts and higher reaches in Kashmir, creating a picturesque winter landscape.
Officials reported that the plains experienced rainfall followed by snowfall, leading to a sharp drop in day temperatures across the valley. Regions such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Aru Valley, Chandanwari, and Kokernag were among the areas that received fresh snowfall.
Other places witnessing snowfall included Peer Ki Gali on the Mughal Road in Shopian district and Zojila Pass along the Srinagar-Leh national highway. Fresh snow was also reported in higher reaches like Sinthan Top in Anantnag district, Affarwat in Gulmarg, and Razdan Pass in Gurez valley.
Meanwhile, light to moderate rainfall was recorded in the plains of Kashmir, including Srinagar city. Despite the pleasant weather, the day temperature in the valley dropped significantly by 13 degrees Celsius. Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of just 12.5 degrees Celsius on Monday, compared to the normal 25.5 degrees Celsius.
The Meteorological Department has forecasted light to moderate rain, accompanied by light snowfall in the higher reaches, continuing till Tuesday afternoon. However, weather officials expect conditions across various districts to improve afterwards.
Earlier in September, Jammu faced heavy rainfall that severely disrupted daily life. Flood-like situations in districts such as Doda and Raesi caused widespread infrastructural damage. The intense weather and landslides also damaged the Jammu-Pathankot highway bridge.
During the crisis, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) rescued 45 students from flooded IIIM hostels. The Indian Army evacuated several people trapped in the valley, while officials organized flood-relief camps to ensure swift rehabilitation.
(With inputs from PTI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/fresh-snowfall-hits-kashmir-after-heavy-rains-temperatures-eases-across-valley-23597603