Jammu & Kashmir: Mountains receive heavy snowfall, plains lashed by rain

Srinagar, March 2 (IANS) Heavy snowfall and rain continued to batter J&K on Saturday, with the MeT department forecasting the weather to last until March 4 forenoon.

Reports indicate heavy snowfall in several key areas such as Zojila Pass, Baltal, Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Gurez, Peer Ki Gali, and Sinthan pass. An official mentioned that the weather is expected to improve from March 3 morning onwards, but caution is advised for those in avalanche-prone areas.

The minimum temperature in Srinagar was reported at 2 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg at minus 2, and Pahalgam at 0.5 degrees Celsius. In Ladakh, Leh recorded zero degrees Celsius, Kargil at minus 5.2, and Drass at minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. Moving to the plains, Jammu recorded 13.4 degrees Celsius, Katra at 10.8, Batote at 4.8, Bhaderwah at 4.4, and Banihal at 4.2 as the lowest temperatures.

With the continued inclement weather, authorities are urging residents in vulnerable areas to stay cautious and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.