After several days of rising temperatures and intense sunshine, the weather across parts of Jammu and Kashmir changed dramatically on Sunday. Light rainfall, dense clouds, and cool winds brought an unexpected chill to the atmosphere, providing relief from the recent spell of warm and dry weather.
Sudden Drop in Temperature After Rain
For the past few days, residents had been experiencing unusually warm conditions, with many switching to light clothing due to the heat. However, the situation changed on Sunday morning when thick clouds covered the sky and light drizzle began across several areas.
The rain continued intermittently throughout the day, accompanied by cool breezes that significantly lowered the temperature. As a result, people who had been wearing T-shirts during the recent warm days were once again seen in sweatshirts, jackets, and other warm clothing.
The cooling effect was so noticeable that fans in homes and offices, which had recently been in regular use, were switched off once again.
Cool Winds Bring Back the Chill
As evening approached, the cool winds intensified, further increasing the chill in the air. The drop in temperature was particularly noticeable during the evening and nighttime hours, reminding residents of the lingering winter conditions in the region.
This sudden weather shift created a pleasant atmosphere for many, while also ending a prolonged period of dry weather.
Rain Settles Dust and Improves Air Quality
The light rainfall also helped settle dust particles that had accumulated in the atmosphere during the dry spell. This change is expected to bring temporary relief from dust-related problems and respiratory discomfort that often increases during dry weather conditions.
Cleaner air and increased humidity may help reduce issues such as allergies, throat irritation, and dry weather illnesses.
Relief for Farmers and Crops
The drizzle has also come as a welcome relief for farmers across the region. Agricultural experts and farmers noted that the rain arrived at a crucial time for crops such as wheat.
In recent weeks, dry conditions had caused some wheat crops to begin turning yellow due to lack of moisture. The fresh rainfall has increased moisture levels in the soil, which is expected to help revitalize crops and improve overall field conditions.
Farmers believe that if the wet weather continues for a few more days, it could significantly benefit agricultural production this season.
Weather Forecast: More Rain and Snow Expected
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the current weather system is likely to continue affecting the region for several more days.
Weather officials have issued the following forecast:
- 15–16 March: Intermittent light to moderate rain in many places, with snowfall expected in higher reaches.
- 18–20 March: Another spell of light to moderate rain and snowfall likely across parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Currently, rainfall has been reported in many areas of the Kashmir division and a few places in the Jammu division.
Snowfall in Higher Reaches
While plains received rainfall, higher altitude regions experienced fresh snowfall.
Snowfall was reported in several areas, including:
- Upper reaches of Gulmarg, including Apharwat and Kongdoori
- Peer Ki Gali along the Mughal Road
- Sonamarg–Zojila axis
The snowfall in these mountainous areas continued for several hours on Sunday.
Mughal Road Closed Due to Snowfall
Following fresh snowfall and bad weather conditions at Peer Ki Gali, authorities temporarily closed the historic Mughal Road for all types of vehicular movement.
According to SSP Traffic Rural Kashmir Farooq Qaiser, the closure was implemented as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of commuters.
Authorities have advised travelers to avoid using the Mughal Road until further notice, and the road will be reopened only after weather conditions improve and it is declared safe for traffic.
Srinagar–Leh Highway Also Affected
Snowfall in the Zojila Pass region also forced authorities to close the Srinagar–Leh National Highway, a crucial route connecting the Kashmir Valley with Ladakh.
Officials stated that the highway will remain closed until snow clearance operations are completed and safe travel conditions are restored.
Wet Weather Lowers Day Temperatures
The widespread rainfall across the valley, including in Srinagar, has significantly lowered daytime temperatures.
Meteorological officials have also warned that erratic weather conditions may continue until March 20, with intermittent rain in the plains and snowfall in higher reaches.
