Srinagar, Apr 18: Heavy rains swept across most parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday evening, marking the beginning of a two-day wet spell triggered by an active Western Disturbance. The sudden shift in weather is expected to intensify over the next 48 hours, bringing widespread rain, snowfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds.
According to the Meteorological Department, the current spell is likely to peak between the night of April 18 and late April 19. Light to moderate rainfall is forecast across the plains, while higher altitudes are bracing for fresh snowfall. The MeT centre in Srinagar has warned of heavy precipitation in several mid and upper-reach regions.
Among the most vulnerable areas are the Pir Panjal belt and mountain zones such as Anantnag-Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg-Zojila, Bandipora-Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, and Kupwara-Sadhna Pass. These regions are expected to receive significant rainfall and snow, potentially disrupting normal life.
In addition to precipitation, thunderstorms, lightning, and hailstorms are likely to affect several areas. Wind speeds are projected to range between 40–50 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 70 kmph, the MeT said.
Authorities have sounded alerts for traffic disruptions on vital routes, including the Srinagar-Jammu and Srinagar-Leh highways, as well as other roads passing through hilly terrain. A high risk of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones persists, especially in vulnerable stretches.
“Travelers on these routes should remain highly cautious and adhere strictly to traffic advisories,” a senior official stated.
Farmers have been strongly urged to halt all agricultural activities until the afternoon of April 21. The weather department has also flagged the possibility of moderate to severe thunderstorms accompanied by high-speed winds, which could pose a threat to infrastructure and public safety.
The continuous rainfall may lead to a surge in water levels in rivers, streams, and nallas, increasing the risk of waterlogging in low-lying urban and rural areas.