Kashmir Weather Alert: Rain Warning, Srinagar on Yellow

Kashmir is once again under the weather’s grip as fresh snowfall blanketed the higher reaches on Saturday, bringing a sharp dip in temperatures and setting the stage for more turbulent weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for seven districts, warning of heavy rainfall expected later today. Several other regions are under a yellow alert, with forecasts of moderate showers.

The orange alert, which signals the possibility of intense rainfall, has been issued for Muzaffarabad, Bandipora, Rajouri, Reasi, Ramban, Anantnag, and Kishtwar. These areas could experience disruptive weather, including localized flooding or landslides.

Meanwhile, a yellow alert, typically suggesting moderate rain, covers a wider area: Kupwara, Ganderbal, Srinagar, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Poonch, Mirpur, Jammu, Udhampur, Samba, Kathua, and Doda.

In Srinagar, the regional weather center has forecast intermittent moderate rainfall, with the maximum temperature expected to hover around 30°C and a minimum of 14°C. Officials advise residents to take precautions, particularly in flood-prone and hilly regions.

Snowfall has already hit several high-altitude zones, including Tulail and Razdan Top in Gurez Valley (Bandipora), Peer Ki Gali in Shopian, Zojila Pass on the Srinagar–Leh highway, and other mountain passes, triggering a noticeable fall in temperatures across the Valley.

According to the Meteorological Department, minimum temperatures have dropped by up to 3°C, while daytime highs were recorded 3–5°C below normal on Friday.

Independent weather analyst Faizan Arif also cautioned that heavy showers could trigger landslides and falling rocks, particularly along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, potentially disrupting road connectivity.

Authorities are urging travelers and residents to stay informed and follow advisories as the weather remains unstable in the coming days.