Unpredictable weather has once again caught Jammu and Kashmir off guard, reminding us of the fragile relationship between nature and human preparedness. The recent spell of sudden snowfall in the hilly regions and relentless rainfall in the plains has not only caused a dramatic dip in temperature but also disrupted life across the Union Territory. From road closures and stranded vehicles to suspended services and safety concerns, the impact has been widespread and alarming.
In Jammu region, the impact was felt widely. Kishtwar experienced a cloudburst, and more than 100 vehicles were stranded at Sinthan Top due to heavy snowfall.
In Jammu city, the mercury dipped significantly with the maximum temperature recorded at 32.9°C, which is 6.1 degrees below normal. Rainfall was recorded at 13.4 mm. Banihal, Batote, Katra, and Bhaderwah also saw a drastic dip in temperatures. Despite the downpour, the Irrigation and Flood Control Department confirmed that all rivers and streams in Jammu remained within the safe level.
In Kashmir valley, several higher altitude areas including Afarwat, Gurez Valley, Razdan Pass, Meenmarg, Drass, Zojila Pass, Sinthan Pass, and the Mughal Road received fresh snowfall. Razdan Pass recorded about 4 inches of snow, Meenmarg and Drass received 3 inches each, and Sinthan Pass saw around 2 inches. This unusual snowfall in June is surprising even though these areas lie above 3,500 meters. Experts describe it as abnormal, though not unprecedented. Srinagar recorded a daytime temperature of just 14.5°C—12.2 degrees below normal.
The abrupt change in weather has also led to the suspension of key services. The chopper service between Katra and Sanjichhat remained disrupted, and several major roads including the Gurez-Bandipora route were closed as a precautionary measure due to snowfall and slippery conditions.
Despite prior weather warnings, many travelers ventured out, highlighting a concerning gap between information and action. The swift rescue operations launched by local authorities and the NHIDCL ensured that all trapped individuals were brought to safety. But this event raises serious questions about preparedness and awareness.
The recurring spells of erratic weather are not just a seasonal anomaly—they are a wake-up call. Whether driven by climate change or shifting weather patterns, Jammu and Kashmir must gear up with better forecasting, infrastructure, and public awareness to face nature’s unpredictability head-on.
