SRINAGAR: The weather across Jammu and Kashmir has recently improved after enduring a significant wet spell, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). On March 2, the region experienced isolatable rainfall and snow, primarily influenced by Western Disturbances affecting the Western Himalayan Region. The IMD has predicted continued light to moderate rain and snowfall until March 12, but it assures comprehensive weather shifts are upcoming.
During the intervening night of February 28 to March 2, areas across Jammu and Kashmir reported varying levels of rainfall. Batote recorded 28.8 mm, Banihal received 19.0 mm, and Bhaderwah logged 10.0 mm of precipitation. The summer capital, Srinagar, registered 1.4 mm. Further values included Qazigund’s 12.2 mm and Kokernag’s 11.2 mm. This recent weather has led to increased water levels across major water bodies, including the Jhelum River.
Director of the Meteorological Department, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, indicated expectations for predominantly cloudy weather moving forward. Between March 3 and 12, the forecasts suggest light to moderate rainfall and snowfall, particularly impacting higher altitudes. For March 3, moderate to heavy snowfall could occur across the higher reaches of North and Central Kashmir. From March 4 to 9, dry weather is anticipated.
To highlight the current conditions, the valley reported varied temperatures on March 2; for example, Srinagar recorded 12.0°C during the day, with nighttime temperatures dissipated to 2.3°C. The state of Jammu reported higher day temperatures, with Jammu itself reaching 23.4°C, highlighting the stark differences between the regions' climates.
For March 3, the IMD forecasts indicated minimum temperatures around -15.22°C and maximum temperatures soaring up to -12.2°C. Locations such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam recorded lows of -7.5°C and -4.7°C, respectively, underlining cold conditions impacting the Kashmiri weather. Further analysis of the daily temperatures over the week reveals complex variations, urging residents to adapt to fluctuated weather conditions.
Weather advisories have also been distributed to caution farmers, travelers, and transporters of the forecasted rain and snow, directing them to suspend irrigation practices until March 4 and exercise caution on roads susceptible to landslides or avalanche. The advisory states, "Farmers should suspend irrigation and other farm operations until March 4," emphasizing the risks associated with the saturated ground conditions expected from the weather.
"Avoid steep slopes and avalanche-prone areas," it adds, as officials remain vigilant about the vulnerabilities posed during this turbulent weather period. Given the turbulent weather conditions, increased travel risks are anticipated with the IMD issuing recommendations to adhere closely to traffic advisories, particularly around vulnerable zones.
To summarize, Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing significant shifts and varied conditions due to the Western Disturbances currently enveloping the region. The IMD reports rainfall alongside severe weather warnings about thunderstorms, with the risk of heavy rain accompanied by lightning. This not only poses immediate risks but can also accumulate water levels through the valleys potentially disrupting local ecosystems and daily life.
Concern among weather officials is particularly heightened around March 10 to 12, where additional rainfall and snow are forecasted, compelling updates as conditions evolve moving forward. The monthly forecast is likely to bring curious fluctuations concerning agriculture, tourism, and local commerce as prescribed by the season's weather patterns.
Maintaining clear communication about weather conditions and advisory protocols remains pivotal as people navigate the operational challenges presented by Jammu and Kashmir’s shifting weather elements. The dynamic weather can pose opportunities for scenic experiences but equally requires caution and preparedness for those engaging with the region’s natural environments.