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SRINAGAR: After an extended dry spell of over two months, Jammu and Kashmir is likely to receive rain and snowfall over the next 48 hours, the Meteorological (MeT) Department said on Friday.
Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the local MeT Department, said moderate snowfall is expected in the higher reaches, while rain is likely in the plains starting late evening on December 20. The weather activity is expected to continue till late afternoon on December 21. Some higher reaches of Ganderbal, Bandipora and Kupwara districts may receive heavy snowfall, particularly on December 21.
In view of the forecast, authorities in Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal districts have issued advisories, urging residents in higher reaches to avoid venturing outdoors during snowfall.
The prolonged dry spell has adversely affected rivers, streams, springs and lakes across the Union Territory, with most water bodies witnessing very low discharge levels. It has also led to an increase in chest-related ailments, including cold, dry cough and flu, with hospitals reporting a rise in such cases. Doctors have advised people, especially children and the elderly, to avoid prolonged exposure to cold and chilly conditions.
The harsh 40-day winter period known as Chillai Kalan will begin on December 21 and continue till January 30. During this phase, minimum temperatures in the Valley often drop between minus 6 and minus 8 degrees Celsius, causing most water bodies to freeze, while daytime temperatures remain in single digits.
On Friday, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 2.1 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam minus 2.6 and Gulmarg one degree. In the Jammu region, minimum temperatures were recorded at 9.9 degrees in Jammu city, 9.2 in Katra, 6.7 in Batote, 3.5 in Banihal and 2.3 degrees Celsius in Bhaderwah.(Agencies)
