Kashmir Valley Shivers as Wet Weather Returns, Temperatures Plummet
Wet weather has brought a sharp chill back to the Kashmir Valley, significantly lowering temperatures across the region and prompting residents to seek warmth through traditional clothing and electric hamams. This sudden change follows a notably warm February, creating a stark contrast in climatic conditions.
Temperature Drop and Snowfall Events
Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 14.9°C on Tuesday, with Gulmarg and Sonamarg receiving fresh snowfall on Wednesday, further contributing to the mercury dip. The meteorological department, in its Wednesday evening forecast, predicted "erratic weather" until March 20, warning of continued disruptions.
Snowfall at Pir Ki Gali along the Mughal Road led to the route's closure, while plains including Srinagar were lashed by rain that persisted into Wednesday evening. Historian Khalid Bashir poetically described the weather as "serenity unveiled along the course of the Jhelum, a wet Wednesday's gentle gift."
Tourist Reactions and Historical Context
Scores of tourists were spotted taking selfies in Gulmarg, with many expressing surprise at the March snowfall. One tourist remarked, "We were not expecting snowfall at this time. In one trip, we got to see the Tulip Garden in Srinagar plus snowfall." This plunge in mercury contrasts sharply with last month's dry spell, which had raised significant concerns.
In February, Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded its warmest February on record, with the maximum temperature rising 10°C above normal to 21°C on February 22. Independent forecaster Faizan Arif noted that the previous all-time February record for Srinagar was 20.6°C observed on February 24, 2016, making the February 22 reading officially the warmest February day ever recorded in the city.
Weather Forecast and Advisories
The current weather is expected to remain cloudy with intermittent light to moderate rain or snowfall at many places. A few higher reaches of the Chenab Valley in Jammu division and south Kashmir may receive moderate to heavy snowfall. Weather conditions are likely to improve between March 21 and 25, with generally dry conditions expected, though a brief spell of rain or snow at isolated places cannot be ruled out on March 23.
The meteorological department has issued specific advisories:
- Travellers planning to move through higher reaches and key passes should plan accordingly between March 18 and 20 due to possibilities of heavy rain and snowfall, accompanied by thunder, gusty winds (40–50 kmph), and isolated hailstorms.
- Farmers are urged to suspend agricultural operations during this period to avoid potential damage from adverse weather conditions.
This weather shift underscores the valley's climatic variability, impacting daily life, tourism, and local activities as residents and visitors adapt to the returning cold.
