JAMMU: The Jammu & Kashmir government, through its Emergency Relief Organization, has issued a critical warning following a significant weather forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Srinagar. An active Western Disturbance is set to affect Jammu & Kashmir from October 4, 2025, bringing widespread rainfall and snowfall across the region from October 5 to 7, peaking from the evening of October 5 until the afternoon of October 7.

According to the forecast, the higher reaches of Jammu & Kashmir including Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg-Zojila, Bandipora-Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, Kupwara-Sadhna Pass, are expected to experience moderate to heavy snowfall. The middle reaches will see light snowfall, while the Kashmir plains will face moderate to heavy rainfall. Jammu division is likely to witness isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds gusting up to 60-70 kmph.

The anticipated adverse weather conditions are expected to disrupt surface transportation including the Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh national highways along with other major roads in the middle and higher reaches. There are heightened risks of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas. Additionally, farmers have been advised to suspend all farming operations from October 5 to 7 to avoid losses.

Other expected outcomes include rising water levels in rivers, streams, and drainage channels causing waterlogging in low-lying areas, as well as disruptions in travel and communications in high-altitude and snow-affected zones.

In response to the forecast, the government has issued precautionary safety guidelines for the public, emphasizing the necessity to stay indoors during heavy rain or snowfall, avoid travel on landslide-prone roads and high-altitude passes, and keep emergency supplies ready. The public has been cautioned against venturing into flooded water bodies and touching fallen electrical wires. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and specially-abled individuals are advised to remain safe indoors.

Moreover, authorities have urged residents to monitor official updates and follow instructions from local disaster management officials without fail. People living in low-lying or flood-prone areas have been advised to evacuate if directed.

For emergency assistance, several helpline numbers including 112 and specific contacts for the UT Emergency Operation Centre (UTEOC) in Srinagar have been shared for prompt public support.

This proactive weather alert and corresponding readiness measures highlight the government's commitment to safeguarding lives and infrastructure amid expected harsh weather conditions. Continuous monitoring and timely communication will remain crucial as the region navigates through these challenging days.

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