Meteorological bureau predicts heavy rain in Kashmir plains and snowfall in upper reaches

SRINAGAR: The Meteorological Department has predicted widespread rainfall, gusty winds and snowfall in parts of Jammu and Kashmir in the next 36 hours due to a strong western disturbance, even as heavy rains flooded roads in Srinagar on Friday.Authorities have issued advisories urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and take safety precautions, especially in Srinagar.Higher districts of Kashmir, including Mughal Road in Shopian and Sadnatop in Kupwara, received fresh snowfall on Friday, while heavy rains hit Srinagar and other districts, resulting in waterlogged roads, making movement of people and vehicles difficult. Officials said five traffic accidents have been reported due to slippery roads.The MeT forecast said “unstable weather conditions” are likely to continue until April 10.On April 4, the weather is expected to remain cloudy, with moderate to heavy rain in the plains and light snow in the upper reaches of Qiangzhou. On April 5 and 6, the weather will still be mainly cloudy, but light rain is expected in some areas.The Srinagar district administration has issued a public advisory warning of severe weather and wind speed reaching 40-50 km/h by the evening of April 4. “The public in Srinagar district is hereby advised to avoid unnecessary activities on roads unless absolutely necessary,” the advisory said.“Tourists, local shikara operators and others around Dal Lake, Jhelum river and other water bodies are strongly advised not to venture out or operate without verifying the prevailing conditions and safety status,” the advisory said.The government has also asked miners and others working near water bodies to exercise caution and avoid hazardous activities near water bodies. Authorities urge people to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions and cooperate with officials to ensure safety during severe weather.