Upcoming Wet Weather in J&K Leaves Skiers Disappointed Over Lack of Snow in Gulmarg
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Synopsis
On February 4, light rain and snow are predicted in Jammu and Kashmir, as officials anticipate another wet spell. Skiers in Gulmarg express disappointment over the scarcity of snowfall this season, with forecasts not suggesting heavy accumulation.
Key Takeaways
- Light rain and snow expected in J&K.
- Minimal snowfall in Gulmarg disappoints skiers.
- Weather advisory issued for tourists.
- Chillai Kalan cold spell concluded.
- Spring blooms expected after March.
Srinagar, Feb 4 (NationPress) Light rain and snow are anticipated on Tuesday in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) as the MET office has indicated that another wet spell is imminent for the Union Territory (UT). Skiers and enthusiasts of winter sports have expressed disappointment due to the minimal snowfall experienced in Gulmarg this season, and the latest forecast offers little optimism for significant snowfall.
A statement from the MET department revealed on Tuesday, “On February 4 and 5, expect generally cloudy weather with a chance of light to moderate rain/snow in various locations until the forenoon of February 5, with improvement anticipated afterward.
“The higher altitudes of the Chenab Valley and the Pirpanjal Range (South Kashmir) might witness snow accumulation exceeding 8-10 inches.
“Between February 6 and 8, a partly cloudy sky will prevail with predominantly dry conditions. Fresh spells of light rain/snow are expected at isolated to scattered locations on February 9.
“From February 10 to 11, anticipate generally cloudy weather with possible light rain/snow in scattered to widely spread areas.”
The MET Department also issued a notice advising, “Tourists, travelers, and transporters should heed the admin/traffic advisories.”
On Tuesday, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 1.8 degree Celsius, Pahalgam minus 4.6, and Gulmarg also noted a low of minus 4.6 degrees Celsius.
In contrast, Jammu city recorded 6.8 degrees Celsius, while Katra town registered 7.9, with Batote at 4.6, Banihal at 1, and Bhaderwah at 2 degrees.
The 40-day-long stretch of severe winter known as ‘Chillai Kalan’ concluded on January 30, after which the partially frozen rivers, streams, springs, lakes, and ponds have started to awaken, with boatmen, fishermen, and tourists frequenting the Dal, Nigeen, and Manasbal lakes of the Valley.
Despite the weather improvement, locals continue to shield themselves from the morning and evening chill by donning the loose tweed overgarment called the ‘Pheran.’
The weather tends to become pleasant post-March, ushering in the blooming of spring flowers and the return of verdant leaves on Chinar, Willow, Poplar, and fruit trees.
Unfortunately, this season has seen a significant lack of snowfall in Gulmarg, resulting in the ski slopes of this renowned ski resort missing their usual snowy splendor.
