Sajid Raina
Srinagar, May 2: The Meteorological Department (MeT) on Saturday said that Jammu and Kashmir will witness erratic weather conditions over the next few days, with rain, thunderstorms, hailstorms and strong gusty winds likely in several areas.
MeT Director Mukhtar Ahmad said that the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy on Sunday and Monday, with intermittent rain, strong winds and the possibility of hailstorms at some places.
Similar conditions are likely on May 5, while improvement is expected between May 6 and 9. From May 10 onwards, the weather is expected to remain largely dry, with brief spells of light rain at isolated places during afternoon hours, he added.
Authorities have advised people to avoid weak structures, electric poles and overhead wires during gusty winds. Farmers have been asked to suspend agricultural activities from May 3 to May 5.
According to MeT data, most places in the Valley recorded above-normal maximum temperatures. Srinagar recorded a maximum of 26.0°C, 3.3°C above normal, while Qazigund settled at 25.2°C, 3.5°C above normal. Kupwara recorded 24.6°C (1.1°C above normal) and Kokernag 24.8°C (3.7°C above normal). Gulmarg, however, recorded 17.2°C.
In the Jammu division, Jammu city recorded 36.0°C, close to normal, while Katra registered 33.0°C and Banihal 25.8°C. Minimum temperatures also stayed slightly above normal at most stations.
Meanwhile, traffic on the Doda–Kishtwar road was suspended following a landslide at Gatsoo near Pul Doda early Saturday, blocking the route completely, officials said.
