SRINAGAR, OCT 2: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to witness a noticeable change in weather conditions from October 6, with the Meteorological Department forecasting increasing cloud cover, light rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds at some places, followed by the possibility of a more widespread spell of light to moderate precipitation from October 9.
According to Director Meteorological Department Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, as reported by news agency JKNS, weather across Jammu and Kashmir is expected to remain generally dry from October 2 to 5. The relatively stable weather during this period is likely to provide favourable conditions for ongoing agricultural operations, including harvesting activities across different parts of the Union Territory.
The weather pattern is expected to begin changing from October 6, when partly to generally cloudy conditions are likely to develop. The department has forecast light rain at some places, while higher reaches may receive light snowfall. Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds are also likely at a few places during this period, indicating the beginning of a more active weather phase after the prevailing dry conditions.
The unsettled weather is expected to continue through October 8, with intermittent cloud cover and the possibility of light precipitation. The higher reaches, particularly areas at greater elevations, could witness the first signs of fresh snowfall as temperatures remain comparatively lower there.
A broader spell of precipitation is forecast from October 9 to 10, when generally cloudy weather is expected to prevail across J&K. During these two days, the Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rain at scattered to many places, while light snowfall is likely over the higher reaches. Thunder and gusty winds may accompany the precipitation at some locations.
The forecast comes at a crucial time for the region’s agricultural sector, particularly in Kashmir, where apple harvesting and paddy harvesting are underway. The Meteorological Department has advised farmers to continue harvesting apples, paddy and other agricultural operations during the relatively dry period ahead of the expected weather change.
The dry window between October 2 and 5 could therefore prove important for farmers seeking to complete pending harvesting and field activities before the possibility of rain increases. Fruit growers and farmers involved in post-harvest operations may also need to factor the forecast into transportation, storage and other related activities.
The expected snowfall over higher reaches is also significant from a seasonal perspective, as the region moves deeper into autumn and temperatures begin to decline, particularly across mountainous areas. While the forecast points towards light snowfall at higher elevations, the actual intensity and distribution of precipitation may vary depending on location and subsequent developments in the weather system.
Following the expected rain and snowfall spell, the weather is likely to improve somewhat, with the Meteorological Department forecasting partly cloudy conditions from October 11 to 14. The forecast indicates that the region may see alternating periods of cloudiness and improved weather during the period.
The department’s latest outlook, therefore, points to a transition from dry and relatively stable conditions to a more active autumn weather pattern, beginning October 6 and becoming more widespread around October 9. Residents, farmers and people travelling to higher-altitude areas are advised to keep the latest local weather updates in view as the forecast period approaches.
