The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh weather advisory predicting a spell of intense weather conditions likely to affect Jammu and Kashmir from April 18 to April 20, 2025. As per the advisory shared with the Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu, an active western disturbance is expected to bring widespread light to moderate rain and snowfall, particularly over the higher reaches of the region, with peak activity forecast from the night of April 18 till late night April 19.
The IMD as per the news agency has specifically warned of heavy rain and snow over the Pir Panjal Range in the Jammu Division and in the middle and higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley. Areas likely to be most impacted include Anantnag-Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg-Zojila, Bandipora-Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, and Kupwara-Sadhna Pass. These regions are expected to witness intense precipitation along with thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 60 to 70 kilometers per hour.
The advisory also expresses concern over potential disruption to surface transport, including the vital Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh national highways. Given the forecast, road connectivity to several hilly and remote areas may be affected due to snow accumulation, reduced visibility, or incidents of landslides and shooting stones.
Furthermore, the IMD has advised farmers across the Union Territory to suspend all agricultural activities from April 18 until the afternoon of April 21. The warning comes amid apprehensions of damage to standing crops and infrastructure due to adverse weather conditions. A rise in water levels in local rivers, streams, and nallas has also been anticipated, increasing the risk of waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Authorities have been urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautionary measures to minimize public inconvenience and ensure safety. The administration has issued specific instructions for road maintenance teams and emergency services in vulnerable districts. [KNT]
