Kashmir Valley and Pir Panjal Regions Prepare for Major Snowfall Event
The picturesque Kashmir Valley and Pir Panjal regions in Jammu and Kashmir are bracing for a significant weather transformation, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Srinagar forecasting major snowfall commencing early Friday. According to meteorological experts, a series of back-to-back western disturbances are set to impact the region's weather patterns for almost an entire week, bringing substantial precipitation to areas that have experienced an unusually arid winter season.
Authorities Activate Emergency Preparedness Measures
Local authorities have escalated their preparedness efforts at the district level in anticipation of the harsh winter conditions. Kulgam Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir Khan revealed that as a precautionary measure, 232 pregnant women expected to deliver in the district this week have already been hospitalized. This proactive step aims to ensure uninterrupted medical care during the challenging weather spell, prioritizing maternal health and safety amid the forecasted disruptions.
From Drought to Deluge: J&K's Weather Reversal
This weather shift comes as a dramatic reversal for Jammu and Kashmir, which has been grappling with a 96% rainfall deficit this month. The prolonged dry spell has resulted in an arid winter, triggering forest fires and causing rivers and streams to dry up across the region. IMD Srinagar director Mukhtar Ahmad explained on Thursday that weather conditions would undergo a significant change starting early Friday, with moderate to heavy rainfall and substantial snowfall expected in parts of south Kashmir, while north Kashmir may experience moderate to heavy snow accumulation.
Transportation Networks Face Significant Disruptions
Ahmad issued warnings about potential disruptions to transportation infrastructure, noting that the weather situation could severely impact traffic flow and trigger landslides on several major highways. The affected routes include:
- The strategic Srinagar–Leh highway
- Mughal Road, which connects Kashmir Valley to Poonch district in Jammu division
- Razdan Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass linking north Kashmir's Bandipora district with the scenic Gurez Valley along the Line of Control
The changing weather conditions may also affect air traffic operations on Friday, with Ahmad specifically mentioning that high-altitude areas including Zojila Pass, Gulmarg, and parts of Kupwara district are expected to receive substantial snowfall accumulation of two to three feet.
Extended Weather Impact and Agricultural Advisory
With another western disturbance likely to affect the region from January 26, Ahmad advised farmers to postpone agricultural activities until at least January 28. The meteorological timeline suggests light rain on January 24-25, followed by another active phase commencing from January 26 when moderate rain and snowfall is expected at most locations across the Kashmir Valley.
Traffic Department Issues Comprehensive Travel Advisory
The Jammu and Kashmir traffic department has issued a detailed advisory urging residents and travelers to exercise extreme caution when planning journeys. The department specifically requested that commuters confirm road conditions with traffic control units in Srinagar, Ramban, and Jammu before embarking on any travel. Additional safety recommendations include:
- Passengers and light motor vehicle operators should restrict travel on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway to daytime hours only
- Night travel is strongly discouraged due to increased risks of shooting stones and landslides
- Travelers should monitor weather updates regularly and maintain emergency supplies in vehicles
This comprehensive weather alert comes as the region prepares for what meteorologists describe as a significant winter weather event that will test infrastructure, emergency response systems, and community resilience across Jammu and Kashmir.
