Srinagar: After much anticipation, Kashmir finally received snowfall on Wednesday night, bringing a sigh of relief to farmers and general public. However, the amount of snowfall was lighter than expected, with most areas receiving only a few inches.
While there are expectations of more snowfall in the next four days, especially on Satutday and Sunday, this deficit snowfall does not augur well for glaciers and other water sources forbthe region, experts believe.
As heavy cloud cover mostly emanated from and was concentrated around central Asia, North Kashmir received more snow than South Kashmir, with some areas like Gurez in Bandipora district recording an impressive 2 feet and 7 inches.
Snowfall data for various towns and cities, compiled by Kashmir Weather, reveals varying snowfall levels across different districts and towns, showcasing the diverse impact of the weather event.
In the heart of Anantnag district, the town itself awakened to a carpet of 4 inches, while the outlying areas receive even more. Movera Pahalgam received 5-6 inches, with the iconic Pahalgam blanketed in 8-9 inches of snow.
In Kokernag, the snow deepens. Upper areas of Valioo bask under a 6-7 inch layer, while Ashmuqam and Verinag wear 6 inches and 10 inches respectively. The idyllic charm of Kokernag town got better with its 10-11 inch blanket.
Neighboring Pulwama district tells a different story. While Pulwama town received a light dusting of 1-2 inches, areas like Tral and Batten Khrew had a slightly higher accumulation of 3-4 inches. Pampore and its surroundings remained mostly untouched by the snow, reminding us of the region’s diverse microclimates.
In Kulgam district, the town enjoyed a moderate 3 inches of snowfall, while Firsal and Nihama revel in a deeper layer of 2-3 and 7 inches respectively. Aharbal, a haven for nature lovers, had a foot of fresh powder. Kilam and Yaripora received 7 and 5 inches respectively.
Apple rich Shopian district witnessed a snowfall ranging from 3-4 inches in Awaneera and Pragochi to a more substantial 6 inches in Herman. The Tharen Trenz area receives a lighter dusting of 3-4 inches.
Central Kashmir gets dusted with snow
A refreshing blanket of snow covered central Kashmir on Wednesday night, bringing joy to locals and tourists alike. While the amounts varied across districts, Srinagar received a gentle sprinkling.
Ganderbal saw the most snowfall, with Wakura taking the lead at 3 inches. Pandach received a light dusting of 1 inch, while Ganderbal Town and Kangan enjoyed 2-3 inches.
Budgam also woke up to a modest snowfall. Khansahib and Beerwah got 3-4 inches each, while Charar-i-Sharief received a moderate 1.5 inches. Budgam Town itself saw a lighter 1 inch of accumulation.
Srinagar, the valley’s heart, got a taste of white magic although less than expected. Buchpora and Soura received 2 inches each, with Hawal and Dalgate getting a light 1 inch. Eidgah saw a slightly higher range of 1-2 inches.
Kupwara District
- Sadhna Pass received the most snowfall, with 4-5 feet.
- Kupwara Town received 4 inches of snow.
- Karnah’s upper areas received 1.5 to 2 feet of snow, while the lower reaches received 1 inch.
- Machil and Hafthrada received 1.5-2 feet and 1 foot of snow, respectively.
- Hachmarg Chowkibal and Pazipora received 1.5 feet and 3-4 inches of snow, respectively.
- Magam Handwara and Lolab received 4-5 inches of snow, while Pushwari received 4 inches.
Baramulla District
- Baramulla Town received 3 inches of snow.
- Gulmarg received more snow than Baramulla Town, with 2 feet or more.
- Baba Reshi received 1 foot of snow.
- Kunzer Tangmarg and Pinjoora Kunzer received 3-4 inches and 2 inches of snow, respectively.
- Sopore, Binner, and Pattan received 2.5 inches, 2 inches, and 2 inches of snow, respectively.
- Zethan Rafiabad received the most snow in Baramulla District, with 5-6 inches.
Bandipora District
- Gurez received the most snow in Bandipora District, with 2 feet and 7 inches.
- Ajas and Sumbal received 1-2 inches of snow each.
Jammu Region
- Bufliaz Poonch received the most snow in the Jammu Region, with 7 inches.
- Bhaderwah, Kishtwar, and Kathua’s upper areas received 2-3 inches, 2 inches, and 6 inches of snow, respectively.
- Banihal received 3-4 inches of snow, while Batote received 1 inch.
- Gandoh Bhalessa Doda received the least amount of snow in the Jammu Region, with 14 inches.
Public Safety Advisory:
While the snowfall may not have reached the initially expected levels, residents are advised to stay cautious of potential disruptions and follow local authorities’ guidance.
Here are some safety measures to keep in mind, especially for drivers, women, and children:
Drivers:
- Slow down and increase following distance due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.
- Use headlights even during the day for better visibility.
- Avoid sudden braking and turns to prevent skidding.
Women and Children:
- Dress warmly in layers to avoid hypothermia. Wear proper footwear with good traction.
- Be aware of the risk of avalanches in higher altitude areas.
- Supervise children closely and keep them away from frozen bodies of water.
