Snow, Rain Forecast Raises Concern for Early Almond, Apple Bloom in Kashmir
MeT predicts wet spell from March 7–10
Experts warn delicate blossoms vulnerable to precipitation, frost
Our Special Correspondent
Srinagar: A fresh spell of rain and snowfall predicted across Kashmir from March 7 to 10 has raised concern among horticulture experts and growers, as early almond blossoms and emerging apple buds remain vulnerable to sudden weather fluctuations.
The India Meteorological Department’s Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast widespread precipitation across the Valley over the next few days, which could coincide with the crucial flowering stage of several fruit trees.
Almond trees in many parts of Srinagar and central Kashmir have already burst into bloom, while apple orchards in some areas are showing early signs of budding following relatively mild temperatures witnessed in recent weeks.
Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif said that precipitation durin the blooming stage can prove detrimental for fruit crops.
“Almond trees are among the earliest to bloom in Kashmir and their flowers are extremely delicate. A spell of rain or snowfall at this stage can damage the blossoms and interfere with pollination, which may ultimately affect fruitw setting,” he said.
Director of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar Mukhtar Ahmad confirmed that a spell of rain and snow is likely to affect Jammu and Kashmir from March 7 to March 10.
“There is a possibility of intermittent rain and snowfall at many places during this period. Farmers and orchardists should remain cautious as weather during flowering can sometimes impact fruit crops,” he said.
Experts at SKUAST-Kashmir also caution that early flowering triggered by warmer-than-normal temperatures in late winter has increased the vulnerability of orchards to sudden cold spells or precipitation in March.
“When bloom occurs earlier than usual, orchards remain exposed to late snowfall or rain. Such events can damage flowers, wash away pollen and affect fruit formation,” an agrometeorology expert at the university said.
Kashmir’s horticulture sector, particularly apple cultivation, forms the backbone of the region’s rural economy, and weather conditions during the flowering period play a crucial role in determining the size and quality of the harvest.
For now, growers remain hopeful that the predicted spell will not be intense enough to harm the blossoms, though many remain wary of the Valley’s notoriously unpredictable spring weather.
