Fresh Western Disturbance Threatens Jammu & Kashmir with Heavy Snowfall
The picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir is once again preparing for significant winter weather as meteorological authorities forecast another round of heavy snowfall following last week's major snow event. After experiencing the season's first widespread snowfall, the area now faces an approaching western disturbance expected to impact the region beginning Monday evening.
IMD Issues Major Weather Advisory for the Region
The Indian Meteorological Department has released a comprehensive advisory warning residents and authorities about potential disruptions. According to their forecast, the fresh snowfall could significantly affect air traffic operations and block crucial transportation routes, including the vital Jammu-Srinagar national highway that serves as a lifeline for the region.
Meteorological predictions indicate that snowfall will likely commence during the night of January 26th, preceded by strong winds in certain areas. The following day, January 27th, is expected to bring moderate to heavy snowfall across most locations in Kashmir and the higher elevations of Jammu division.
Detailed Forecast for Different Areas
Sonam Lotus, the head of the meteorological centre in Leh and a well-known weather expert across Kashmir, provided specific details about the expected conditions. "Srinagar is likely to receive moderate to heavy snowfall," Lotus stated, drawing from his extensive experience that includes previously heading the meteorological centre in Jammu and Kashmir.
Lotus further explained that while snowfall will begin on Tuesday morning in Srinagar, accumulation might remain limited, with possibilities of three to four inches of snow. This forecast brings hope to Srinagar residents who were disappointed when last week's snowfall bypassed the city entirely.
The IMD clarified that the plains of Jammu are unlikely to experience heavy snowfall during this weather event. By January 28th, conditions are expected to ease, with only light rain in some areas and snowfall confined to Kashmir's higher reaches.
Context: Last Week's Major Snowfall Event
This new weather system follows a significant snowfall event that occurred last Friday, ending a prolonged dry spell that had characterized much of the winter season. The Kashmir Valley, along with the Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley regions of Jammu, witnessed heavy snowfall accompanied by severe winds reaching remarkable speeds of up to 155 kilometers per hour.
The previous snowfall caused substantial disruptions across the region:
- Multiple highways became blocked and impassable
- Numerous flight cancellations affected air travel
- Educational institutions temporarily closed their doors
- Power supply experienced significant interruptions
- Several homes suffered structural damage, including loss of roofs
Positive Reception Despite Disruptions
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the snowfall has been warmly welcomed by residents and visitors alike. Young people across various districts, including those in south Kashmir that received particularly heavy snowfall, have been enjoying the winter conditions by playing in the snow and celebrating the seasonal change.
Social media platforms in Kashmir have been flooded with snowfall-related content, with residents sharing videos and images of the winter wonderland. The heavy snowfall has also revitalized tourism, attracting visitors from within India and abroad to popular destinations like Gulmarg.
Tourism Revival in Gulmarg
The famous ski resort of Gulmarg has experienced a remarkable resurgence in activity following the snowfall. Hundreds of tourists have flocked to the area to enjoy winter sports and scenic experiences, resulting in long queues at the gondola station. Social media influencers have joined the influx, documenting their experiences in the snow-covered landscape.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited Gulmarg on Sunday, where he enthusiastically participated in winter activities. Abdullah enjoyed both snow scooter rides and skiing, demonstrating the appeal of Kashmir's winter offerings to visitors of all backgrounds.
As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for this new weather system, authorities remain vigilant about potential disruptions while residents and tourists alike anticipate the continuation of winter's beauty across the region's stunning landscapes.
