Snow-dusted Gulmarg heralds arrival of autumn in Kashmir

Srinagar, Sep 27: Gulmarg ski resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district experienced its first snowfall of the season on Friday, marking the beginning of autumn in Kashmir.

The light snowfall dusted the Affarwat Gulmarg mountains, creating a mesmerising winter-like scene as Kashmir transitions into the colder months.

This fresh snowfall, though light, caused a noticeable dip in temperatures across the Valley that sizzled with hot temperatures for the entire summer this year.

According to the Meteorological Department, Srinagar recorded a maximum of 23.7 degrees Celsius, Qazigund 22.6 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam 19.6 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg 14.4 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 24.2 degrees Celsius, and Jammu 30. 4 degrees Celsius.

The tourists were seen relishing the early snow, with some capturing the breathtaking beauty of Gulmarg’s freshly coated white landscapes.

The early snowfall is not only a visual delight but also a sign of the changing seasons, heralding the arrival of autumn in Kashmir, a time when Kashmir’s famed Chinar trees take on a golden hue.

In addition to Gulmarg’s snowfall, Kashmir witnessed overnight rainfall, with both the plains and hills receiving a spell of light to moderate rains.

The showers provided much-needed relief after an extended period of dry weather.

The Meteorological Department officials said that the weather pattern would continue to fluctuate in the coming days.

From September 28 to 30, Kashmir is expected to witness dry weather, though isolated showers may occur on Saturday.

The long-term forecast, stretching from October 1 to 6, predicts generally dry weather, which will offer a reprieve to both the residents and farmers.

The MET issued an advisory for farmers across J&K, urging them to safely store their harvested crops in light of the forecasted thunderstorms and gusty winds.

“Farmers are advised to safely store the harvested crops and resume harvesting and other farm operations from Saturday,” the advisory read, emphasising the importance of safeguarding agricultural produce from any potential weather-related damage.