Srinagar, April 3: The Meteorological (MeT) Department forecast erratic weather across Jammu & Kashmir from Friday to Sunday, with peak activity on April 4, bringing light to moderate rain and snow till April 5.
Generally cloudy skies will prevail Friday, with intermittent light to moderate rain/snow in higher reaches, thunder, hail, and gusty winds (30-50 kmph) at scattered places, especially afternoon.
Saturday sees the wet spell intensify, with moderate rain/snow likely across the Valley and Jammu division. Conditions improve slightly Sunday, with partly cloudy skies and isolated light rain.
MeT warned of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas, particularly the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. Farmers and orchardists should suspend spraying and operations April 3-4 due to rain and winds; daytime temperatures will drop sharply. Another rain/snow spell may hit April 7-9.
Minimum Temperatures (°C): Srinagar 11.2, Gulmarg 4, Pahalgam 6.2; Jammu 19.8, Katra 19, Batote 13.5, Banihal 12.1, Bhaderwah 10.
Winter’s rainfall/snow deficit raised water scarcity fears, but recent plains rain and hill snow have boosted levels in rivers, streams, lakes, springs, and wells.
