Kamal Ghorui
SRINAGAR: The meteorological department has forecast widespread rain, gusty winds and also snowfall at some places in Jammu and Kashmir over the next 36 hours due to strong western disturbance, even as heavy rains flooded roads in Srinagar on Friday.Authorities have issued an advisory urging residents to avoid non-essential travel and follow safety precautions, especially in Srinagar.On Friday, higher reaches of Kashmir, including Mughal Road in Shopian and Sadhna Top in Kupwara, received fresh snowfall, while Srinagar and other districts saw heavy rains which flooded roads, making the movement of people and vehicles difficult. Officials said five road accidents were reported due to slippery roads.The MeT forecast said “erratic weather conditions” are likely to continue till April 10.On April 4, the weather is expected to remain cloudy, with moderate to heavy rainfall in the plains and snowfall in higher reaches in J&K. On April 5 and April 6, though the weather will remain cloudy, light rainfall is expected at isolated places.The district administration in Srinagar has issued a public advisory, warning of inclement weather and wind speeds of 40–50 kmph till the evening of April 4. “The general public of district Srinagar is hereby advised to avoid unnecessary movement on roads except in cases of absolute necessity,” the advisory said.“Tourists, local shikara operators, and others around Dal Lake, Jhelum River and other water bodies are strictly advised not to venture out or operate without verifying prevailing conditions and safety status,” the advisory said.The administration also asked miners and others working near water bodies to exercise caution and avoid risk-prone activities near water bodies. Authorities have urged people to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions, and cooperate with officials to ensure safety during the adverse weather period.
