Kashmir Braces for Three-Day Rain and Snow Spell; Authorities on High Alert

Kashmir is set to experience a three-day spell of rain and snowfall from October 5 to 7, prompting authorities to issue advisories for residents and farmers. The Meteorological Department has forecast cloudy skies, moderate rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, with higher reaches expecting light to moderate snowfall. Areas such as Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Zojila, and Sinthan Top are likely to receive heavy snow, while plains may see rain and a sharp temperature drop to around 4°C–5°C.

Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the MeT Department, said that the weather system will affect most parts of Kashmir and some regions of Jammu Division. The J&K Emergency Relief Organization has issued a public advisory warning of potential landslides, waterlogging, and transport disruption on the Jammu–Srinagar and Srinagar–Leh highways. Residents have been advised to remain indoors during heavy precipitation and keep essential supplies ready.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has directed all administrative departments to stay prepared for any eventuality, stressing that “citizen safety remains the top priority.” Disaster management and emergency response teams have been placed on high alert, while police, PWD, and PDD officials have been instructed to monitor road and power conditions.

Farmers have been urged to suspend field operations, and people in flood-prone areas have been asked to stay alert or evacuate if required. Tourists and residents have also been advised to avoid high-altitude travel and avalanche-prone zones.

The early snowfall, officials say, will mark the onset of winter and boost tourism in popular destinations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg, which have already witnessed fresh snow this week. Meanwhile, traffic on key highways is being regulated as authorities work to ensure safety amid the changing weather.