SRINAGAR: After a prolonged 50-day dry spell, Kashmir Valley finally witnessed a shift in weather on Thursday, as steady rainfall drenched the low-lying areas while the upper reaches experienced fresh snowfall.
The extended dry period had severe consequences, with numerous natural springs drying up and hydroelectric power production plummeting by 80%.
The inadequate snowfall also forced authorities to defer the ‘Khelo India 2025’ winter games, initially planned at the ski resort of Gulmarg.
Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department, informed The New Indian: “Today’s precipitation has put an end to the prolonged dry conditions.
Over the next few days, river and stream levels are expected to rise. If the current weather pattern persists, Jammu and Kashmir will likely witness additional rainfall and snowfall between February 26 and February 28.”
For weeks, residents had been fervently hoping for precipitation, as the absence of rain and snow had severely impacted water sources.
Many hoped the renewed wet spell would help revive the region’s natural springs and improve the flow in streams and rivers.
Temperature readings recorded on Thursday showed Srinagar at a minimum of 4.4°C, Gulmarg at -2.8°C, and Pahalgam at 1.2°C.
In the Jammu region, the lowest temperatures were reported in Jammu city (11.9°C), Katra (9°C), Batote (3.7°C), Banihal (2.4°C), and Bhaderwah (4.4°C).
Ordinarily, Jammu and Kashmir’s higher altitudes receive substantial snowfall during winter, replenishing the region’s water reserves.
This stored water sustains rivers, lakes, and springs throughout the hot summer months. However, a snow-deficient winter often results in severe water shortages during the warmer season.
In north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, the upper reaches received fresh snowfall, prompting authorities to halt vehicular movement along key roads.
An official told The New Indian that multiple areas, including Z-Gali in Machil, Ferkhian Top in Keran, and Sadhna Top, recorded snow accumulation of 4 to 5 inches.
Consequently, district authorities decided to suspend traffic along these routes to prevent accidents caused by slippery road conditions.
“The roads leading to these high-altitude areas have become dangerously treacherous. For public safety, traffic has been suspended and will resume only when weather conditions improve,” the official stated.
Meanwhile, the lower regions of Kupwara experienced continuous rainfall from the early hours of Thursday.
In another development, the Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh highway also received fresh snowfall, temporarily disrupting vehicular movement.
A few inches of snow accumulated on the highway, making travel hazardous and forcing authorities to suspend traffic until conditions improve.
