Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Mar 30: Higher reaches of Kashmir received fresh snowfall today while Valley was lashed by intermittent rains leading to dip in temperatures across the region.
The wet spell affected several parts of the Valley, with moderate snowfall reported in higher reaches of North and Central Kashmir and heavy rains accompanied by gusty winds lashed the Valley including Srinagar.
The inclement weather triggered landslides and snow accumulation along the Bandipora-Gurez road, particularly near Razdan Top, resulting in the stranding of several vehicles.
The district administration of Bandipora, along with teams from the Mechanical Engineering Department (MED) and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), safely evacuated 22 vehicles carrying tourists and other passengers.
The vehicles were stranded at multiple locations due to snow, mudslides and falling rocks, while strong winds added to the challenges faced by rescue teams.
All stranded tourists were evacuated safely and provided necessary assistance, including medical aid.
A landslide hit Uri in Baramulla, blocking the road, with authorities deploying men and machinery to clear the debris.
The Meteorological Department in Srinagar has forecast erratic weather conditions across the region till April 10.
A MeT official said that the intermittent light to moderate rain and snowfall in higher reaches, accompanied by thunder and gusty winds with speeds of 40-50 kmph, is likely to continue till this evening, with improvement expected thereafter.
From March 31 to April 2, brief spells of light rain or snow may occur at isolated places, particularly during late afternoon hours, while generally cloudy conditions with scattered precipitation are expected on April 3 and 4.
Partly cloudy weather is likely between April 5 and 7, followed by fresh spells of light rain or snow at scattered locations from April 8 to 10.
The MeT office has warned of the possibility of moderate rainfall at a few places and moderate snowfall over higher reaches of north and central Kashmir, along with thunder, lightning and gusty winds.
It also cautioned about the risk of landslides at vulnerable locations and advised travellers to follow traffic advisories.
Authorities in Ganderbal, Anantnag and Kupwara districts have issued avalanche warnings in prone areas, urging residents to avoid unnecessary movement until conditions improve.
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