Jammu and Kashmir is bracing for heavy rains and snowfall in the upper reaches from Sunday.
According to MeT official, an active Western Disturbance is set to affect Jammu & Kashmir from October 4, 2025, bringing widespread rainfall and snowfall across the region from October 5 to 7, peaking from the evening of October 5 until the afternoon of October 7.
According to the forecast, the upper reaches of Jammu & Kashmir including Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg-Zojila, Bandipora-Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, Kupwara-Sadhna Pass, are expected to experience moderate to heavy snowfall.
The middle reaches will see light snowfall, while the plains including Srinagar will face moderate to heavy rainfall.
Jammu region is likely to witness isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds gusting up to 60-70 kmph.
The MeT has warned that adverse weather conditions may disrupt surface transportation including the Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh national highways along with other major roads.
There are heightened risks of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas.
In response to the MeT forecast, administry has issued precautionary safety guidelines for the public, emphasizing the necessity to stay indoors during heavy rain or snowfall, avoid travel on landslide-prone roads and high-altitude passes, and keep emergency supplies ready.
People have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and follow instructions from local authorities.
Citizens have been cautioned not to venture into flooded rivers, streams, or nallas, and to stay away from fallen electric wires or exposed equipment.
Travel on landslide-prone roads and high-altitude passes has been discouraged.
The advisory also urges people in flood-prone or low-lying areas to evacuate if instructed.
Rooftops, loose objects, and farm equipment should be secured, and vulnerable family members should remain indoors, reads the advisory.
Residents have been asked to stay updated through official IMD and disaster management channels.
People have been told to avoid moving livestock unnecessarily, and to stay away from avalanche-prone zones and blocked natural watercourses.
In view of the weather advisory, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has directed all administrative departments to remain fully prepared to tackle any eventuality.
