Widespread rain, snow likely in Kashmir on Nov 12-13; MeT issues advisory

Moderate to heavy snowfall expected in higher reaches of Kupwara, Bandipora, Ganderbal; day temperatures may plunge by 6-8°C

Srinagar: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast widespread precipitation across Jammu and Kashmir on November 12 and 13, predicting light to moderate rainfall in the plains and snowfall over higher-altitude areas.

An official of the Meteorological Department told GNS that November 11 would largely remain dry, although isolated places may experience brief spells of light rain or snowfall.

According to the forecast, generally cloudy conditions are expected across most parts of Jammu and Kashmir on November 12 and 13, with light to moderate rain in the plains and snowfall over higher reaches.

Moderate to heavy rainfall is likely in Poonch and adjoining areas, while higher reaches of Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal districts may receive moderate to heavy snowfall from the forenoon or afternoon of November 12 until late afternoon on November 13.

The weather is expected to remain generally dry on November 14 and 15, barring brief spells of light rain or snow at isolated places. Mainly dry conditions are likely to continue from November 16 to 20.

Issuing an advisory, the MeT department has urged farmers to ensure the safe storage of harvested crops during November 12 and 13 in view of the expected precipitation.

The department cautioned that moderate to heavy snowfall over higher reaches could disrupt traffic movement along important mountain passes and hilly roads.

Travellers, transporters and tourists have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly and strictly follow traffic advisories issued by the concerned authorities.

The department has also predicted a significant decline in daytime temperatures by 6 to 8 degrees Celsius during November 12 and 13. Thunderstorms, hailstorms and gusty winds are also likely at a few places.

Meanwhile, fresh snowfall was reported on Tuesday from several higher-altitude areas, including Sadna Top, Ferkin Top, Machil, Sonamarg, Zojila, Minimarg and Tulail Valley in Gurez area of Bandipora district.