Snowfall in Kashmir’s higher reaches, rains in plains

Srinagar, Oct 14: Snowfall was recorded in the higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley, including Razdan Pass and Zojila Pass, on Wednesday, while rainfall in the plains brought down temperatures across the region.
Several other high-altitude areas also received fresh snowfall as wet weather conditions prevailed across the Valley, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 18.2 degrees Celsius, 4.6 degrees below the seasonal average, while the minimum temperature settled at 10.5 degrees Celsius, 4.2 degrees above normal, the IMD said.
Kupwara recorded a maximum temperature of 15 degrees Celsius, 8.3 degrees below normal, while Gulmarg recorded a maximum of 8 degrees Celsius, 5.7 degrees below the seasonal average.
Pahalgam recorded a maximum temperature of 17 degrees Celsius, 2.6 degrees below normal, while the minimum temperature settled at 7.6 degrees Celsius, 4.9 degrees above normal.
The weather office has forecast light to moderate rain at many places across Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, with light snowfall over higher reaches. Thunderstorms, gusty winds and hailstorms are also likely at isolated places from late Thursday afternoon through the night and into early Friday morning.
The weather is expected to remain generally dry on Friday, with the possibility of brief spells of light rain at isolated places. Dry conditions are likely to prevail across the region from October 17 to 24.
The IMD has advised farmers to ensure the safe storage of harvested apples, paddy and other crops during October 14 and 15 in view of the possibility of rain, gusty winds and hailstorms.
Travellers, transporters and the general public have also been advised to plan their journeys accordingly and follow traffic advisories, particularly in view of the possibility of snowfall on important mountain passes and highways. (KNO)