Snowfall, Rain and Hailstorms Hit Jammu & Kashmir

Snowfall Returns to Kashmir's Higher Altitudes as Rain and Hailstorms Sweep Jammu & Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Weather conditions changed dramatically across Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday as widespread rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and hailstorms affected several districts. The sudden shift came after a period of unusually warm temperatures across the Union Territory.

The higher reaches of Kashmir witnessed fresh snowfall, with the famous Apharwat peak in Gulmarg receiving a new layer of snow. Other elevated areas in north Kashmir also reported snowfall, creating a sharp contrast to the recent warm weather experienced in the region.

According to meteorological officials, the change in weather was triggered by an active western disturbance that moved across Jammu and Kashmir, bringing moisture-laden clouds and unstable atmospheric conditions. As a result, many areas experienced intermittent rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds throughout the day.

The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar reported that several locations witnessed intense but short-duration rain spells, along with lightning activity and strong winds during the afternoon and evening. Authorities had earlier issued a nowcast warning predicting rain and thundershowers in multiple districts, including Kulgam, Shopian, Rajouri, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur, Doda, and Kishtwar.

Weather experts also cautioned residents about the possibility of hailstorms, lightning strikes, and localised flooding in vulnerable areas. Due to heavy rainfall over short periods, there were concerns regarding flash floods, mudslides, and disruptions in hilly terrain.

Meanwhile, a lightning strike in Sazaan village reportedly triggered a forest fire in a pine-covered area. Emergency teams and local authorities monitored the situation, and no casualties or injuries were reported at the time of filing this report.

The latest weather activity has provided relief from the recent heat but has also raised concerns over travel disruptions and potential weather-related hazards in mountainous regions. Officials have advised residents and tourists to stay updated with weather forecasts and exercise caution while travelling through vulnerable areas.

Meteorologists expect weather conditions to remain unsettled in some parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the next few days, with intermittent rain and cloud cover likely to persist in several districts.