Srinagar:
Meteorologist Sonam Lotus from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast predicting substantial snowfall across the Western Himalayan regions, encompassing Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The anticipated snowfall is expected to grace the mountainous landscapes from the 18th to the 21st of this month, offering a respite from the prevailing dry spell.
Sonam Lotus posted on “X”, ” Western Himalayan Regions ( Ladakh, J&K, H. P & Uttarakhand) very likely to receive Good Snowfall during 18-21st.”
Despite a slight rise, temperatures in the region continue to linger below freezing, with Srinagar recording a low of minus 2.5°C on Tuesday. Meteorological observations revealed a marginal increase in temperature compared to the previous night, yet it remains notably lower than the seasonal average, emphasizing the wintry conditions gripping the region.
In the valley, Qazigund experienced a minimum temperature of minus 1.2°C, Pahalgam recorded a low of minus 5.4°C, and Kokernag registered a minimum of minus 0.3°C. These temperatures, though slightly elevated from the previous night, are still below normal for this time of year, indicating the enduring chill in the air.
Residents of Kupwara woke up to a frigid morning, with temperatures dipping to minus 4.5°C, while Gulmarg, renowned for its skiing slopes, saw the mercury drop to minus 4.5°C. Despite being above normal for Gulmarg, the temperatures in these regions underscore the cold wave gripping the area.
In the winter capital of Jammu, temperatures dipped to 8.4°C, below the seasonal average, while Banihal, Batote, and Bhaderwah recorded lows ranging from 1.0°C to 3.7°C.
Looking ahead, the IMD official stated that dry weather is expected to prevail until February 17. However, another wet spell is on the horizon, with the possibility of light to moderate snowfall or rain forecasted for many places in Jammu & Kashmir from February 18th to the 20th.