SRINAGAR, Jan 24: Fresh snowfall was recorded across several parts of Jammu and Kashmir following a heavy spell triggered by a Western Disturbance, which has now moved out of the region, with meteorological officials forecasting largely dry weather for the next 48 hours.
After intense snowfall on Friday, additional inches of snow were reported overnight in parts of Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian, Baramulla, Budgam, Bandipora and Kishtwar districts. Rajouri town also witnessed a snowfall spell, an unusual occurrence described by officials as rare.
Authorities said snowfall was reported from areas that had not experienced snow for nearly a decade. Weather experts attributed the phenomenon to a strong cold air mass associated with the Western Disturbance, which led to a sharp drop in temperatures even in comparatively warmer regions.
According to the Meteorological Department, weather conditions across Jammu and Kashmir are expected to remain largely dry for the next 48 hours. However, another Western Disturbance is likely to approach the region from Monday afternoon, January 26, which may bring light to moderate rain and snowfall to parts of the Union Territory.
Meanwhile, traffic authorities said that the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), Mughal Road, Srinagar–Sonamarg–Gumri (SSG) Road and Sinthan Road continue to remain closed due to adverse weather conditions.
Commuters have been advised not to undertake travel on these routes until they are fully restored and declared safe. People were also urged not to rely on rumours and to obtain road updates only through official Traffic Police channels or Traffic Control Units.
Air traffic was also affected, with several flights cancelled at Srinagar Airport on Saturday morning. An airport official said that due to a NOTAM in force at Delhi Airport and unfavourable weather conditions in Srinagar, at least seven flights to and from the airport were cancelled.
Passengers have been advised to check the latest flight status with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport. (KNC)
