Srinagar, 3 May: Residents of Jammu and Kashmir are being advised to prepare for a period of unstable weather as the Meteorological Department (MeT) predicts rain, thunderstorms, and hailstorms across the Union Territory over the next few days.
According to the MeT Director, the weather is expected to remain mostly cloudy this Sunday and Monday. The forecast includes intermittent rainfall and the possibility of hailstorms in isolated areas, which could disrupt normal activities.
Key Weather Dates to Watch
The MeT Department has outlined a specific timeline for these weather changes:
- Until May 5: Generally cloudy with rain, lightning, and gusty winds.
- May 6 to May 9: Weather conditions are expected to show significant improvement.
- From May 10: The weather will turn largely dry, though brief light showers might occur in some areas during the afternoons.
Safety Advisories and Impact on Agriculture
Government authorities have issued safety guidelines urging people to stay away from weak structures, electric poles, and overhead wires during periods of strong winds to avoid accidents.
Farmers have also been given specific instructions. The MeT has advised them to suspend all agricultural activities between May 3 and May 5, as the expected rain and hail could pose a threat to crops and outdoor work.
Temperature Trends
Despite the upcoming rain, recent data from the MeT shows that temperatures had been running higher than usual. Srinagar recorded a maximum of 26.0°C, which is 3.3°C above the normal temperature for this time of year. Jammu City saw a high of 36.0°C.
However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) suggests that May will overall be cooler and wetter than average, a shift from the typical early summer heat.
Highway Report: Landslides and Traffic Jams Disrupt Travel
Commuters are facing major hurdles on the roads. A landslide at Gatsoo near Pul Doda early Saturday morning completely blocked the Doda–Kishtwar road, bringing traffic to a standstill.
National Highway-44 Updates
The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained slow and congested on Saturday. Several factors contributed to the delays:
- Vehicle Breakdowns: Heavy trucks breaking down on single-lane stretches like Marog–Kishtwar Pather.
- Ongoing Construction: Road work between Ramban and Banihal continues to restrict movement.
- Nomadic Herds: Large groups of livestock moving along the highway between Nagrota and Banihal added to the heavy traffic load.
Traffic authorities mentioned that while some stranded vehicles were cleared toward Ramban and Banihal, movement is expected to remain slow through Sunday. Travelers are encouraged to check the current road status before starting their journey.
Status of Other Major Roads
- Mughal Road: Regulated traffic is allowed from Shopian toward Poonch between 5 AM and 10 AM, subject to weather conditions.
- Srinagar–Sonamarg–Gumri Road: Light motor vehicles are being permitted toward Kargil following safety clearances.
- Sinthan Top: The Kishtwar–Sinthan–Anantnag road remains closed due to accumulated snow and road damage.
