Kashmir’s higher reaches receive season’s first snowfall

Srinagar, Oct 3: The higher reaches of Kashmir received the season’s first snowfall while rains swept across the plains, adding a chill to the autumn air on Friday.

Fresh snow blanketed Affarwat in Gulmarg’s ski resort, as well as Sinthan Top and Margan Top in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, officials said.

Light rain was observed in Srinagar and its adjoining areas, while the plains of south Kashmir also experienced intermittent showers on Thursday night and into Friday afternoon.

The Meteorological Department said an active Western Disturbance was set to bring a stronger spell of rain and snow across J&K beginning Sunday.

“Widespread light to moderate rain and snowfall in higher reaches is expected from October 5 to 7, with peak activity between Sunday night and Tuesday morning,” the advisory said.

The department predicted moderate to heavy snowfall in areas including Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Margan Top, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg, Zojila, Bandipora, Gurez, Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, Kupwara, and Sadhna Pass.

In the plains, moderate to heavy rainfall is likely, while parts of the Jammu division may receive isolated heavy to very heavy showers, the IMD said.

Officials warned that the weather system may cause disruptions along key highways, including the Srinagar-Jammu and Srinagar-Leh National Highways, and trigger landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas.

The department also cautioned against a rise in water levels in rivers and streams, which could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas.

With slopes in Gulmarg already dusted white and orchards across Kashmir dripping under fresh rain, people now brace for a turbulent week of weather.