Weather advisory flags highway disruption, avalanche risk till Jan 28
FIRDOUS AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Jan 21: Jammu and Kashmir is bracing for a prolonged spell of inclement weather as two Western Disturbances (WDs) are set to affect the Union Territory in quick succession between January 22 and January 28, triggering widespread rainfall and snowfall, with intense activity expected on January 23 and January 27, according to a weather advisory in possession of Kashmir Despatch.
The advisory, issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Srinagar, and circulated by the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRR&R), cautions that the back-to-back systems could significantly impact daily life, transport, agriculture and safety, particularly in middle and higher reaches of the region.
Two weather systems, prolonged impact
As per the advisory, the first Western Disturbance will remain active from January 22 to January 24, with peak intensity on January 23, while the second system is expected to affect the region from the night of January 26 to the forenoon of January 28, peaking on January 27. The close succession of the two systems is expected to prolong wet and snowy conditions across large parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Under the influence of these systems, widespread light to moderate rainfall and snowfall is expected across the Union Territory, while moderate to heavy snowfall at isolated places has been forecast, particularly over the Pir Panjal range, the Chenab Valley of Jammu division, and the middle and higher reaches of South Kashmir.
Areas likely to receive heavy snowfall
According to the advisory accessed by Kashmir Despatch, the first Western Disturbance is most likely to cause heavy rainfall and snowfall over several vulnerable locations, including Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Gulmarg, the Sonamarg–Zojila axis, Bandipora–Razdan Pass, Kupwara–Sadhna Pass, and the districts of Doda, Udhampur, Reasi, Kishtwar and Ramban.
During the second Western Disturbance, similar weather conditions are expected to prevail, with moderate to heavy rain and snowfall again likely over the Pir Panjal range, encompassing the Chenab Valley of Jammu division and middle and higher reaches of South Kashmir, raising concerns over cumulative snowfall and saturation of slopes.
Highways, air traffic may face disruption
The advisory warns that the prevailing weather may lead to disruption of surface and air transport, including the strategically vital Jammu–Srinagar National Highway and other major roads connecting middle and higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir. Snow accumulation and reduced visibility may lead to temporary closures of mountain passes and snow-bound roads, particularly during peak snowfall days.
Travellers, tourists and transporters have been advised to plan their movement strictly in accordance with official advisories issued by the Traffic Police and district administrations, and avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather.
Avalanche, landslide threat flagged
The advisory has also flagged a heightened risk of avalanches in snow-bound areas, urging people to avoid venturing into sloppy and avalanche-prone zones. In addition, there is a possibility of landslides, mudslides and gusty winds ranging between 40 and 60 kmph at vulnerable locations, especially along hilly and mountainous terrain.
Farmers asked to suspend activities
Farmers across the region have been advised to temporarily suspend irrigation, fertilizer application and chemical spray activities during the affected period, as precipitation and low temperatures may adversely impact agricultural operations.
Precautionary measures and public advisory
The Disaster Management Department has urged residents to remain alert and follow official weather advisories in letter and spirit. People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel to higher reaches, keep essential supplies and medicines readily available, and ensure the safety of elderly persons, children and other vulnerable groups.
The advisory further cautions people not to ignore official warnings and to avoid movement on snow-bound or slippery roads.
Emergency services on standby
To ensure public safety, emergency services have been placed on alert. Citizens can seek assistance through the Unified Emergency Helpline (112) or contact the UT Emergency Operations Centre (UTEOC), J&K, which is operational round the clock.
The advisory has been forwarded to all concerned departments with instructions to give it wide publicity through print, electronic and social media, enabling timely preparedness ahead of the approaching spell of severe winter weather across Jammu and Kashmir.
