While Srinagar prepares for moderate showers under a yellow alert (max 30°C/min 14°C), seven districts face far more serious conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert – signaling heavy rainfall and heightened risks – for:
🔶 Muzaffarabad, Bandipora, Rajouri, Reasi, Ramban, Anantnag, and Kishtwar.
Critical Implications You Need to Know:
Travel Warnings:
- Landslides and “shooting stones” are likely on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44), particularly around Ramban and Reasi.
- Sinthan Top (South Kashmir) already saw snowfall-related vehicle strandings yesterday; police rescued 9 people. Avoid high-elevation passes unless urgent.
Higher Areas Still Reeling:
- Fresh snowfall in Gurez Valley (Bandipora), Peer Ki Gali (Shopian), and Zojila Pass has dropped temperatures 3–5°C below normal. This increases flood risks as rain hits snowmelt zones.
Thunderstorm Threats:
Independent forecasters warn of localized cloudbursts and cloud-to-ground lightning in orange zones. Farmers should secure livestock and harvests.
Srinagar-Specific Outlook:
- Moderate rain expected today. No major flooding anticipated, but carry rain gear.
- Beyond today: Isolated showers possible tomorrow (2 June), then dry spells 4–6 June. Rain may return by 7–8 June.
Why This Matters Beyond the Forecast:
- Agriculture: The abrupt shift from snow to heavy rain could damage orchards. Farmers using IMD’s new AI weather alerts for basic phones should prioritize heavy-rain warnings.
- Infrastructure: Older buildings in orange-alert districts may face water seepage. Clear drains proactively.
- Tourist Advisory: Trekkers should postpone high-altitude plans (≥3,500m). In Srinagar, indoor cultural sites (e.g., Shah Hamdan shrine) offer safer exploration.
The Big Picture:
This intense wet spell—coming just after rare June snowfall—highlights Kashmir’s increasingly unpredictable spring weather. While the orange alert districts face the brunt today, all residents should monitor updates, especially near rivers and slopes.
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