Valley’s high altitudes receive snowfall; hailstorm batters plains

Srinagar, May 22: Fresh snowfall was recorded in the higher reaches of Kashmir, including Minimarg along the strategic Zoji La axis, while heavy rain and hailstorm lashed several plains areas on Friday, damaging orchards and standing crops in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, officials said.

The weather activity affected many parts of the Valley as an active western disturbance continued to influence Jammu and Kashmir.

Officials said that higher reaches around Minimarg received fresh snowfall during the day, leading to a sharp dip in temperatures in the area. Rainfall was also reported from several plains districts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, Baramulla, Kupwara and parts of central Kashmir.

A severe hailstorm struck the Lasar area of Rafiabad in Baramulla district and nearby villages, causing extensive damage to apple orchards, vegetable fields and standing crops, locals said.

The hailstorm, accompanied by heavy rain and gusty winds, also affected villages in the Zaingeer belt, where residents reported damage to agricultural land during the afternoon hours.

“The weather changed suddenly as dark clouds gathered over the area, followed by intense rainfall and hailstones. Apple orchards and crops have suffered damage,” a resident from Rafiabad said.

Farmers expressed concern over losses to orchards and crops, saying the untimely hailstorm could impact the ongoing agricultural season in the area.

Officials said preliminary reports of damage had been received from affected villages, and assessment teams would evaluate the extent of losses.

The latest weather activity disrupted normal life in some areas, with waterlogging reported from low-lying localities and movement slowing on several roads during heavy showers.

The Meteorological Department said weather conditions are expected to remain unstable over the next few days.

According to the forecast, generally dry weather is expected during the forenoon between May 23 and 25, with brief showers likely at scattered places towards late afternoon hours.

From May 26 to 28, the weather is expected to remain mainly hot and dry across Jammu and Kashmir, while brief showers are likely at a few places between May 29 and 31.

Weather officials have advised people, particularly those in vulnerable and mountainous areas, to remain cautious during periods of thunderstorms, gusty winds and hailstorm activity.