Rain, Snowfall Disrupt Life in Kashmir; Key Roads Closed, Temperatures Drop Sharply

Srinagar: Widespread rainfall and fresh snowfall disrupted daily life across Jammu and Kashmir on Friday and Saturday, leading to the closure of key routes and warnings of landslides and flash floods in several areas. Authorities have temporarily suspended traffic on multiple mountain passes due to safety concerns.
Fresh snowfall at Razdan Pass in Bandipora district forced the closure of the Gurez-Bandipora road. Similarly, Peer Ki Gali on the Mughal Road saw fresh accumulation of snow, prompting officials to close the Poonch-Rajouri-Shopian stretch as a precaution. Zojila Pass, which connects Kashmir with Ladakh, was also closed after snowfall, potentially affecting supply movement to the region.
The Meteorological Department in Srinagar reported widespread rain and thundershowers across most parts of the Union Territory over the last 24 hours, with Poonch receiving 39 mm of rainfall and Baramulla 22 mm. Gusty winds were recorded in several districts — 72 km/h in Samba, 65 km/h in Jammu, and 58 km/h in Kathua. The department has forecast a continuation of the wet spell for at least three more days.
In Srinagar city, the maximum temperature is expected to remain around 16°C on Saturday — a sharp drop from the 34°C recorded earlier this month. Officials have confirmed that this is among the lowest daytime temperatures seen in May in recent years.
Heavy rainfall and hailstorm in Ramban district flooded low-lying areas and slowed down vehicular movement. Commuters in parts of Srinagar also faced difficulties due to moderate to heavy showers. However, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained open for passenger vehicles in both directions, while heavy vehicles were allowed only from Jammu to Srinagar.
Authorities have urged residents and commuters to remain cautious due to slippery road conditions, risk of avalanches in higher areas, and possible waterlogging in urban and low-lying zones. The MeT Department has also advised the public to avoid loose structures, exposed electric wires, and aging trees during stormy weather.
Looking ahead, light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to continue through May 31. From June 1 to 2, isolated rainfall may occur in some areas, followed by a brief dry spell from June 4 to 6. Scattered rain and thunderstorms could return on June 7 and 8.
Officials have warned of potential landslides, mudslides, and flash floods in vulnerable areas and advised people living in hilly or slide-prone regions to stay alert. Snow clearance operations are underway on affected routes, but traffic will remain suspended until weather conditions improve.