Kashmir Braces for Intense Cold Wave and Snowfall Amidst Record Low Temperatures

Kashmir Braces for Intense Cold Wave and Snowfall Amidst Record Low Temperatures

Asif Iqbal | February 3, 2024 | 11:21 AM IST | Jammu Kashmir, Weather | Follow on Google News

Kashmir Braces for Intense Cold Wave and Snowfall Amidst Record Low Temperatures

Kashmir Braces for Intense Cold Wave and Snowfall Amidst Record Low Temperatures

Kashmir experienced a return of cold wave conditions, with temperatures dropping several degrees below freezing point, following a brief respite from a weak western disturbance on Friday. The local Meteorological department predicted the likelihood of light to moderate snowfall and rain until February 4th in the region.

According to Meteorological data, Larnoo in south Kashmir’s Anantnag recorded the lowest temperature at -17.7°C, followed by Sonamarg tourist resort in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district at -15.1°C. The ski resort of Gulmarg reported a minimum temperature of -12°C, while Pahalgam reached -11.9°C. Qazigund settled at -9.4°C, marking the lowest temperature in the past 16 years, with Kokernag also recording -9.4°C, surpassing the previous record of -12.2°C on February 13, 2008. Qazigund had its lowest temperature of -16.7°C on February 3, 1967.

Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological department, described it as a cold night, with temperatures plummeting several degrees below normal in most places. Gulmarg saw a deviation of 4.4 notches below normal, and Pahalgam experienced a drop of 5.8 notches below normal.

Dr. Mukhtar projected a possibility of very light snow at isolated higher reaches on Saturday, with the anticipation of light to moderate snowfall and rain in many areas from the 3rd to 4th of February. There were also chances of heavy snowfall in isolated higher reaches during this period.

He highlighted that the middle and higher reaches of North, Northwestern, and South Kashmir might receive 8-12 inches of snow, lower reaches and plains 3-6 inches, and plains of Central Kashmir could expect rain along with 1-2 inches of snow. Regarding the Jammu division, he forecasted light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning and light to moderate snow over higher reaches of Pirpanjal Range and Chenab Valley during the specified period.

Due to the anticipated inclement weather, travelers were advised to plan accordingly and follow administration and traffic police advisories. The J&K Disaster Management Authority issued an avalanche warning in eight districts, with varying danger levels predicted for specific altitudes.

Meanwhile, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway partially reopened after being closed for two consecutive days due to adverse weather conditions. Stranded vehicles were gradually cleared, and commuters were urged to exercise caution, particularly near Sherbibi, where the road was reduced to a single lane and slippery in several places. Mughal Road and Srinagar-Sonamarg Road remained closed due to snow accumulation, with traffic permitted once conditions improve.

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Asif Iqbal

Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.