Srinagar: The higher reaches of Kashmir received the season’s first snowfall on Friday, with more expected in the coming days, according to the meteorological department.
Affarwat in the famous ski resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla and Sinthan Top in Anantnag district in the south were among the places that witnessed snowfall, officials said.
Some places in the plains, including Srinagar city and its adjoining areas, received light rainfall, they said.
The meteorological department said an active western disturbance is most likely to affect Jammu and Kashmir and adjoining areas from Sunday.
“Under the influence of this system, widespread light to moderate rain/snow (in higher reaches) are expected in J&K from 5th October to 7th October, 2025, with peak activity during 5 night to 7th morning,” it said in an advisory.
The system is most likely to cause moderate to heavy snowfall over higher reaches of Anantnag-Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg-Zojila, Bandipora-Razdan Pass, Gulmarg and Kupwara-Sadhna Pass, it said.
Light snowfall over the middle reaches and moderate to heavy rain over the plains of Kashmir is also likely, according to the advisory.
The weather advisory underlined probable impacts — including disruption of surface transport, particularly along the Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh National Highways, as well as other major roads passing through middle and higher reaches of the Union Territory. The likelihood of moderate to severe thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds at several locations has also been flagged.
Officials have warned of increased chances of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones over vulnerable stretches, posing risks to commuters and transport operations. In addition, a rise in the water levels of rivers, streams, and nallahs is anticipated, raising the threat of waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Farmers have been specifically advised to suspend all agricultural operations during the period from October 5 to 7, as the weather conditions may significantly affect standing crops and field activities.
“This weather disturbance is expected to be widespread and intense. We urge the public, especially those living in vulnerable areas, to remain cautious and follow advisories from local authorities,” the advisory signed by M. H. Mir, Head of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, stated.
The department has also urged people to stay updated with regular forecasts and avoid unnecessary travel on vulnerable roads during the period of severe weather activity.
