Srinagar, April 6 – The weather across Jammu and Kashmir was partly cloudy on Monday as the local Meteorological (MeT) Department forecast intermittent light to moderate rain and snow (in higher reaches) at several places starting Tuesday.
A MeT Department statement said that the weather in the union territory is likely to remain partly cloudy on Monday, and light to moderate rain and snow (in higher reaches) is expected from the morning of April 7 until the evening of April 8.
The statement further stated that a few places in the plains may receive moderate to heavy rain with light to moderate snow at higher reaches in some areas.
The forecast for April 9 and 10 indicates that light rain and snow (in higher reaches) is expected at scattered locations.
An advisory issued by the MeT office states that there is a possibility of thunder/hail/gusty winds (40 to 50 KMPH) at a few places during April 7 and April 8.
"Intense heavy showers at a few places may lead to flash floods/landslides at a few vulnerable locations and waterlogging in low-lying areas. Farmers are advised to suspend all farm operations and travelers are advised to plan accordingly," the advisory said.
The minimum temperature on Monday was 6.4 degrees Celsius in Srinagar, -1.1 degrees Celsius in Gulmarg, and 3.4 degrees Celsius in Pahalgam.
Jammu city had 15.7, Katra 13.4, Batote 6.1, Banihal 5.4, and Bhaderwah 4 as the minimum temperature.
Jammu and Kashmir had less than normal rainfall and snowfall during the winter season, and this has triggered concerns among farmers, orchard owners, and the general public about water shortages for irrigation and drinking purposes during the summer months.
While February received less snowfall than average, March had adequate precipitation, and April also began on a wet note in the union territory. This has raised the water levels in rivers, streams, lakes, springs, and wells across the UT. These water bodies were flowing at their lowest levels in January and February.