MeT issues alert for heavy rain, snow and thunderstorms in J&K from April 18–20
Srinagar, April 17 (KINS): The Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory warning of heavy rain, snowfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds across Jammu and Kashmir from April 18 to April 20, with peak intensity expected between the night of April 18 and late night of April 19.
An active Western Disturbance is forecast to affect the region, bringing widespread light to moderate rain in plains and snow in the higher reaches. The Pir Panjal range in Jammu and upper regions of Kashmir—especially Anantnag-Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg-Zojila, Bandipora-Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, and Kupwara-Sadhna Pass—are expected to receive heavy precipitation.
The advisory warns of strong winds reaching 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60–70 kmph, along with the possibility of hailstorms and lightning. The adverse weather may cause significant disruption to surface transport, particularly on the Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh National Highways and other major roads in hilly areas.
The MeT Centre has also cautioned about risks of landslides, mudslides, shooting stones, and a rise in water levels in rivers and streams. Waterlogging in low-lying areas is also expected. Farmers have been advised to suspend all agricultural operations from April 18 until the afternoon of April 21.(KINS)
