Western Disturbance Brings Fresh Snow to Upper Kashmir- Valley Nights Turn Warmer Under Cloud Cover !
PRIME VISTA NEWS
A fresh western disturbance triggered renewed snowfall across the higher reaches of Kashmir on Tuesday, reintroducing wintry conditions in the mountains even as persistent cloud cover pushed night temperatures in the Valley plains above seasonal averages, officials said.
The latest spell was largely confined to elevated areas, while most low-lying regions remained dry but overcast a combination that moderated overnight cooling.
Snow Returns to Gulmarg, High Altitude Belts
The ski resort of Gulmarg received fresh overnight snowfall, coating slopes and rooftops in a new layer of snow. The development added to the scenic appeal of the resort, which remains a key winter tourism hub.
Higher reaches in north and south Kashmir also recorded intermittent snowfall during early morning hours, though accumulation was limited to upper elevations.
Cloud Insulation Raises Minimum Temperatures
While the mountains turned white, plains experienced relatively warmer nights due to dense cloud cover. Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 3.3°C – 3.1 degrees above the seasonal average.
According to the India Meteorological Department, cloud layers act as a thermal barrier, trapping outgoing surface heat and preventing sharp temperature drops overnight.
Sub-Zero Conditions Persist in Elevated Stations
Despite warmer conditions in the plains, high-altitude areas continued to reel under freezing temperatures:
- Gulmarg: –3.4°C
- Pahalgam: –0.4°C
- Kokernag: –1.3°C
- Qazigund: 2.6°C
- Kupwara: 0°C
The temperature divergence highlights the localized impact of the western disturbance across Kashmir’s mountainous terrain.
In an earlier report, Prime Vista News highlighted that over 41.6 lakh vehicles in Haryana were operating without valid insurance coverage, as per Lok Sabha data.
Rain and Snow Likely Over Next 24 Hours
The MeT department has forecast light to moderate rainfall in several parts of the Valley, with intermittent snowfall expected in middle and higher elevations over the next 24 hours. No severe weather advisory has been issued.
Authorities have, however, cautioned tourists and commuters about slippery road conditions and reduced visibility in snow-prone areas.
Transition Phase Weather to Continue
As Kashmir enters the seasonal transition from winter to early spring, meteorologists expect weather conditions to remain variable. Alternating spells of snowfall, rain, and clearer skies are likely in the coming days, depending on the movement and intensity of the western disturbance.
For the tourism sector, fresh snowfall offers a short-term boost. For agriculture and horticulture, however, fluctuating temperatures and untimely precipitation remain factors to monitor closely.
Further updates are expected as the system evolves.
