Traffic disruptions, 2 flight cancellations reported
Jammu Tawi, Dec 22: Cold conditions across Jammu and Kashmir eased slightly on Monday following fresh snowfall in higher reaches and rainfall in the plains, even as the Meteorological Department (MeT) forecast further precipitation over the next 12 hours.
In the Jammu division, Katra recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 10.0°C, while Jammu Airport registered 11.0°C. Banihal and Bhaderwah were colder at 3.8°C and 4.4°C, respectively.
Snowfall Boosts Tourism in Hill Resorts
Popular tourist destinations, including Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam, received fresh snowfall ranging from about five to 18 inches. The snowfall was eagerly awaited by skiers, Christmas and New Year tourists, and stakeholders in the tourism sector.
Despite some improvement, minimum temperatures across the Kashmir Valley remained below normal, with several areas recording sub-zero readings.
Sub-Zero Temperatures Persist in Kashmir Valley
South Kashmir’s Pulwama district recorded the lowest minimum temperature at -3.2°C, followed by Shopian (-2.9°C) and Awantipora (-2.2°C). In central Kashmir, Srinagar recorded -0.4°C, while Qazigund and Pahalgam registered -1.0°C each. Gulmarg and Kulgam recorded relatively higher minimums of 2.0°C and 1.2°C, respectively.
In Ladakh, Leh recorded a minimum temperature of -4.2°C. Some weather stations, including Zojila Pass, Kargil and Doda, did not report data.
Weather Outlook: Cloudy Skies Ahead
The MeT Department said further precipitation was likely till Monday night. From December 23 onwards, weather across Jammu and Kashmir is expected to remain partly cloudy until December 29.
Light rain or snowfall over higher reaches at isolated places is possible from December 30 to January 1, while January 2 and 3 are expected to remain partly cloudy. Moderate to dense fog is likely to persist over the plains of Jammu division during the next seven days.
Air Quality Improves After Rainfall
Rain and snowfall significantly improved air quality across the Valley. Officials said the Air Quality Index (AQI) showed marked improvement following the wet spell. The weather is expected to remain dry and cold from December 23 to December 30.
An advisory warned of moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches of Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal districts, particularly during the night.
Roads Closed, Traffic Regulated
Inclement weather disrupted vehicular movement across the region. Traffic on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained slow due to single-lane movement at several stretches. The Traffic Police said regulated movement would continue till December 23 due to the breakdown of two heavy vehicles.
Several roads, including the Srinagar–Sonamarg–Gumri road, Mughal Road, Kishtwar–Sintthan–Anantnag road and Gurez–Bandipora road, were closed due to snow accumulation. Snow clearance operations have been initiated.
Two Flights Cancelled Due to Low Visibility
IndiGo and SpiceJet cancelled two flights from Srinagar airport due to low visibility. Passengers were advised to check flight status with their respective airlines.
