On one hand many parts of country is experiencing sever heatwave, while on the other hand, fresh snowfall was recorded in the plains of Kashmir along with heavy rains in the higher areas, schools were closed in Gurez and Tulail, and many roads in the upper areas, including Mughal Road, were closed. On Saturday, too, life was affected due to erratic weather in Kashmir, as fresh heavy snowfall occurred in the highlands and heavy rains in the plains, causing a significant drop in the day temperature.
According to the report, snowfall was recorded in several high-altitude areas of North Kashmir, including Tulail and Gurez of Bandipura district, Razdan Pass, Jojila Pass, and Sinthan Top. Several major roads had to be closed due to fresh snowfall, and the authorities had to suspend school classes as a precaution in Gurez. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Gurez ordered the suspension of classes up to 8th standard in Tulail and up to 5th standard in Gurez tehsil, citing safety of students amid continuous snowfall and inclement weather conditions.
Officials have confirmed that Gurez-Bandipora Road, Mughal Road, Jojila Pass, and Sithan Pass have been closed for vehicular traffic following snowfall. Sinthan Top, a strategic mountain pass connecting Anantnag with Kishtwar, has been closed for two days due to overnight snowfall and slippery roads. Adding to the weather chaos, several districts of the Valley witnessed severe thunderstorms with hailstorm late on Friday night. Strong winds uprooted tree branches and damaged roofs at many places.
The Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert for the Kashmir Valley, warning that the irregular weather conditions will continue till the night of April 20. Officials have advised people, especially those living at high altitudes, to avoid unnecessary travel and take safety precautions.