Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Jammu and Kashmir is likely to see a fresh spell of rain and snowfall between November 12 and 14, as a Western Disturbance is expected to affect the region. Higher reaches may receive moderate to heavy snowfall, while the plains are likely to see rain.
According to the latest forecast reported on Monday, the weather system is expected to intensify over the three days and could bring the season’s first snowfall to several popular tourist destinations and higher-altitude areas.
Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Doodhpathri and Pahalgam are among the places where snowfall is possible. North Kashmir is expected to be among the areas significantly affected by the system.
The spell could also disrupt road connectivity in mountainous areas, particularly along routes that pass through higher elevations and vulnerable stretches. Travellers and transporters have been advised to monitor official weather bulletins and traffic advisories before undertaking journeys, especially towards higher reaches and mountain passes.
The intensity and distribution of precipitation will depend on the movement of the Western Disturbance, and the forecast may be updated as the system approaches.
Western Disturbances are the main source of winter precipitation in the region, and the first spell of the season often marks the start of the colder months. Snowfall in the upper reaches is welcomed by tourism operators, who look to the first snow as a draw for visitors, and by farmers and water managers, since snow builds the reserves that feed rivers and springs later in the year.
At the same time, early snowfall can create difficulties. Higher-altitude roads can become slippery, and passes may be closed for short periods for safety, which affects the movement of goods and people. Residents of remote areas generally stock essentials ahead of such spells, and administrations review preparedness, including the deployment of snow clearance machinery and the availability of power and fuel supplies.
Orchardists and growers also track these systems closely, as sudden changes in temperature and moisture at this time of year can influence late-season fruit and vegetable stocks. Travellers planning to visit Gulmarg or Pahalgam for the first snow should check the latest advisories and road conditions before leaving, and keep flexibility in their plans in case the system arrives earlier or later than forecast.
Updated forecasts are expected from the weather office as the dates draw nearer.
