KINS Desk
Srinagar, Jan 23 (KINS): Jammu and Kashmir witnessed severe weather conditions over the past 24 hours with strong gusty winds, significant rainfall, and widespread snowfall across several districts, according to the Meteorological Department Srinagar (MET SRN).

As per the weather data, extremely strong winds were recorded in many areas, with Shopian witnessing gusts up to 155 kmph, followed by Poonch at 80 kmph, Reasi at 76 kmph, Jammu at 63 kmph, and Srinagar at 52 kmph.

Heavy rainfall was reported from parts of Jammu division, with Katra recording 79 mm, Udhampur 77 mm, Jammu 69 mm, Samba 63 mm, Rajouri 56 mm, Qazigund 45 mm, and Srinagar 37 mm.

Several areas in Kashmir also received fresh snowfall. Gulmarg recorded 45 cm of snow, Shopian 55 cm, Kupwara 20 cm, Pahalgam 17 cm, Banihal 16 cm, Sonamarg and Kulgam 15 cm each.

The Meteorological Department as per news agency Kashmir Indpeth News Service (KINS) forecast light to moderate rain or snow at most places on January 23, with the possibility of heavy rain or snowfall over parts of the Chenab Valley, Pir Panjal range, and south Kashmir till evening, followed by improvement. From January 24 to 25, light rain or snow is expected at isolated places.

Another active weather system is likely from the night of January 26 to January 27, bringing light to moderate rain or snow at many places, with chances of moderate to heavy snowfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds at a few locations. From January 28 to 31, the weather is expected to remain partly cloudy.

An advisory has been issued warning of heavy rain, snowfall, gusty winds, and possible hailstorms over parts of the Pir Panjal range, Chenab Valley, and south Kashmir. There is also a possibility of landslides at vulnerable locations. Authorities and the public have been advised to plan accordingly, while farmers have been urged to suspend farm operations during the affected period.(KINS)