Kashmir’s higher reaches receive season’s first Snowfall, Fresh western disturbance likely to hit J&K from Sunday
Srinagar, Oct 03: The higher reaches of Kashmir witnessed the season’s first snowfall on Friday, bringing joy to tourists and locals while marking the onset of colder days in the Valley.
The Meteorological Department, has forecast more rain and snow in the coming days, with a fresh western disturbance likely to affect Jammu and Kashmir from Sunday.
Officials said Affarwat peak in Gulmarg (Baramulla district) and Sinthan Top in Anantnag district received a fresh spell of snow.
In Srinagar and adjoining plains, intermittent showers led to a dip in day temperatures, giving residents the first taste of winter.
The Meteorological Centre Srinagar said weather conditions will remain unsettled in the coming week: Oct 3–4: Generally cloudy with light rain till Saturday afternoon; light to moderate rain, thunder, and gusty winds possible by evening/night.
Oct 5–7: Intermittent rain and thundershowers at most places in J&K, with light to moderate snowfall over higher reaches. On October 6, heavy to very heavy rain is likely at a few places in Jammu division, while moderate to heavy rain may occur in isolated parts of Kashmir.
Oct 8: Brief spell of light rain at some places.
Oct 9–14: Mostly dry weather expected across the Union Territory.
The MeT department has issued an advisory for farmers, urging them to suspend harvesting and other agricultural operations between October 5–7 to prevent damage.
It has also cautioned about the risk of landslides and shooting stones along vulnerable stretches, particularly on hilly routes such as Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley. Authorities have appealed to travellers to remain cautious due to slippery conditions and possible disruptions.
The snowfall in Gulmarg has already created excitement among tourists. Travel operators expect the fresh snow to provide an early boost to the Valley’s winter tourism season.
