MeT predicts rain, gusty winds in J&K till Sunday
Bandipora-Gurez road closed after fresh snowfall
Srinagar: Moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms lashed Jammu and Kashmir in the past 12 hours, while light snowfall was recorded in the upper reaches of the valley, the Meteorological Department said on Friday.
Director Metrological department Srinagar Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said the weather is likely to remain generally cloudy with intermittent spells of light rain and thundershowers at many places, particularly during morning and late evening hours, from April 17 to 19.
He added that gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph and possible hailstorms at isolated locations are likely during this period.
The official said the weather is expected to improve from April 20 to 24, with generally dry conditions prevailing across the Union Territory. Similar conditions are forecast for April 25 and 26, though brief spells of light rain or thundershower with gusty winds may occur at isolated places towards the afternoon.
He said strong winds on Thursday evening caused minor disruptions in power supply across several areas of the valley.
The MeT department has advised farmers to suspend farm operations from April 17 to 19 in view of the expected weather activity.
“The advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure to minimise potential damage to crops and ensure safety during adverse weather conditions,” he said.
The department has urged people to remain cautious, especially during periods of strong winds and thunderstorms, and follow official advisories.
Meanwhile, the 85-km Bandipora-Gurez road was closed following fresh snowfall at Razdan Top, officials said.
An official said that the vehicular movement on the strategic road connecting Bandipora with the remote Gurez Valley was suspended as a precautionary measure after snowfall made the high-altitude Razdan Pass slippery and unsafe for traffic.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Gurez, Mukhtar Ahmad, said the road shall remain closed until further orders.
“Movement on the Bandipora–Gurez road shall remain suspended until further orders,” Ahmad said.
Officials said snowfall at the pass reduced visibility and created slippery conditions, prompting authorities to halt traffic.
The administration issued an advisory urging residents and travellers to avoid unnecessary movement on the route and to adhere to official directions until the road is declared safe. (KNS)
