Srinagar, Sept 5: A sudden change in weather brought the season’s first light snowfall to higher reaches of Kashmir, including Gulmarg and Sonamarg, while widespread rains in the plains brought down temperatures and made the weather pleasant across Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the Meteorological Department, light snowfall was recorded in higher reaches of Bandipora and Ganderbal districts, including Gumri and Zojila, marking the first snowfall of the season in the region.
The higher reaches around Gumri and Zojila received light snow, covering the mountain slopes with a thin white blanket and bringing a noticeable chill to the area.
The snowfall and rain have resulted in a perceptible drop in temperatures in the higher reaches, with the weather showing early signs of the approaching colder season.
In the plains of Kashmir, several areas received fresh rainfall, while Jammu city and other parts of the Jammu region also experienced spells of rain, including heavy overnight showers in some areas.
The weather change provided relief from the recent warmth, with residents experiencing cooler and more pleasant conditions.
The Meteorological Department has forecast generally dry weather over Jammu and Kashmir during the next five days, although partly cloudy conditions with the possibility of light to moderate rain at isolated places are expected during the next two days before improvement.
Meanwhile, a variation in maximum temperatures was recorded across the Valley on Friday. Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 33.5 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded 25.8 degrees Celsius and 21.2 degrees Celsius, respectively.
In the Jammu region, Jammu city recorded a maximum temperature of 33.1 degrees Celsius.
The weather department said temperatures are likely to decline slightly following the recent spell of rain and snowfall, while the overall weather situation continues to be monitored.
The first snowfall in the higher reaches in early September has added to indications of an early transition towards colder weather in the mountains, although conditions in the plains remain comparatively warm.
