Sajid Raina
Srinagar, Jan 2: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to witness generally dry weather from January 3 to 5, with partly cloudy skies expected between January 7 and 15.
According to the details available, dense to very dense fog is likely at a few places over the plains of the Jammu division during the next three days.
The Indian Meteorological Centre in Srinagar stated that daytime maximum temperatures across the Kashmir division remained below normal on Friday, while night temperatures were close to seasonal averages.
Srinagar recorded a maximum of 0.1°C against a normal of 7.7°C and a minimum of -2.4°C, indicating a departure of 2.5°C below normal. Pahalgam recorded a low of -6.2°C, while Gulmarg experienced -7.0°C overnight, with snow depth at 5 cm, reflecting lingering winter conditions in higher altitudes.
In the Jammu division, Jammu city reported a maximum of 6.0°C and a minimum of 7.2°C, slightly below seasonal norms. Bani, Batote, Katra, and Kathua reported minimum temperatures ranging between -3.0°C and 6.1°C.
The department also said that areas like Banihal, Batote, and Bhaderwah experienced sub-zero night temperatures due to clear skies and calm conditions.
Weather forecasts indicate that January 6 may bring generally cloudy conditions, with light snow possible over isolated higher reaches of North and Central Kashmir.
However, plains and lower elevations are expected to remain dry, with no significant precipitation predicted.
The department advised residents, especially in Jammu plains, to exercise caution while commuting due to dense fog conditions, which could reduce visibility and impact travel.
Meanwhile, Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, said that minimum temperatures have remained on the higher side for several days, with overnight cloudiness leading to a slight rise in readings across all stations.
“Looking ahead, no major weather system is expected till January 15, though a feeble WD may affect the region between January 5 and 6, bringing cloudy conditions and light snowfall in isolated higher reaches of North and Central Kashmir,” he added.
The overall weather is likely to remain dry, with a slight increase in cold but low chances of any significant temperature drop, he said.
