The Meteorological Department has predicted a spell of light to moderate snowfall in Kashmir from Sunday evening. As per the latest forecast issued by the MeT, a Western Disturbance is likely to hit Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday evening, with wet weather likely to continue till Monday.
In the weather forecast, Director MeT, Sonam Lotus said “Weather is likely to remain mainly dry during the next 24 to 36 hours in J&K and Ladakh. However, light to moderate snowfall is likely to occur at scattered to fairly widespread places of Kashmir and higher reaches and also at Drass, Zojila area of Ladakh during December 27 evening to December 28. Overall, no major snowfall activity is expected till January 3.”
Meanwhile, the cold wave conditions continue with below-freezing temperatures recorded in the Valley. Summer capital Srinagar on Thursday night recorded minus 4.2 degrees Celsius while ski-resort Gulmarg recorded minus 5.6 degrees Celsius.
Pahalgam in south Kashmir recorded minus 5.9 degrees Celsius, being the coldest recorded station of the Valley. Winter capital Jammu has also been affected by the chilly weather conditions. It recorded 6.3 degrees Celsius minimum temperature on Thursday night and 17.6 degrees maximum temperature on Friday.
The Valley has been reeling under a cold wave as it is witnessing the 40-day harshest winter period of Chillai Kalan. During this phase, a cold wave grips Kashmir and the temperature drops considerably leading to the freezing of water bodies including the Dal Lake as well as the water supply lines in several parts of the Valley. The chances of snowfall are maximum during this period.