Altaf Hamid Rao.
MIRPUR (AJK), (Parliament Times) : Both sides of the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir state including AJK and IIOJK are very much set to experience a spell of rain and snow as a fresh Western Disturbance, currently developing over Afghanistan, moves towards the region by February 20. The disturbance is expected to bring widespread precipitation across the Himalayan state including AJK and IIOJK, says,a,report reaching here on Monday from across the line of control.
The report continued that according to weather predictions, the upper reaches of the region will be the first to witness the effects, with precipitation starting late on the night of February 19. The intensity of rain and snow is expected to increase as it spreads across both divisions of Jammu and Kashmir, it added.
“Most areas are likely to witness a moderate spell of rain or snow, with some parts potentially receiving heavy precipitation. Occupied Jammu region is expected to record higher rainfall compared to the Kashmir Valley, with the districts of Ramban, Kishtwar, and Doda in the Chenab Valley likely to receive moderate to heavy precipitation”, according to the report.
In Indian Illegally Kashmir Valley plains, rainfall is expected to dominate initially. However, a sharp drop in temperatures might lead to snowfall, especially in cases of prolonged heavy precipitation, the report underlined quoting prediction”. “Temperatures, which are forecast to remain between 15 and 18°C on February 19, are expected to drop sharply to below 7°C on February 20”, the report opined.
The picturesque Pir Panjal range is anticipated to receive heavy snowfall, particularly affecting popular areas like Gulmarg, Sinthan Top, Peer Ki Gali, and regions along the Mughal Road.
With relatively higher temperatures prevailing, lightning and thundershowers are expected, particularly in the Jammu region. Additionally, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway may face disruptions due to the potential for shooting stones and landslides, according to the report.
Weather conditions are likely to improve from February 21 onwards, providing relief after the anticipated disturbance, the report added