Srinagar- The Jammu and Kashmir administration has gone into high alert following a severe weather advisory predicting widespread rain and snowfall across the Union Territory from October 5 to 7, 2025.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), an active Western Disturbance is expected to affect both divisions of J&K, bringing moderate to heavy snowfall over higher reaches and heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the Jammu division. The system is likely to be most intense from the evening of October 5 until the afternoon of October 7.

In the Kashmir region, areas expected to witness heavy snowfall include Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg–Zojila, Bandipora–Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, and Kupwara–Sadhna Pass. Mid-altitude areas may see light snowfall, while the plains could experience moderate to heavy rainfall. Jammu division is expected to face thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and winds gusting up to 60–70 kmph.

Meanwhile, Independent weatherman Faizan Keng said the effect of the Western Disturbance will become noticeable from Sunday evening, intensifying from Monday onwards.“Plains are likely to receive light to moderate rain, while higher reaches will witness snowfall which may lead to closure of key mountain passes including Sinthan Top, Zojila Pass, Margan Top and Sadhna Top,” Keng said.

He added that the upper reaches of South Kashmir may witness 6 inches to 1.5 feet of snowfall, while North Kashmir's upper reaches could record nearly a foot of snow.

The Meteorological Department has issued a detailed advisory for the people and has asked the farmers to suspend harvesting and other agricultural operations between October 5–7.

“There is a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Jammu division and moderate to heavy rainfall in isolated areas of Kashmir division, accompanied by thunder, lightning and gusty winds. Landslides and shooting stones are likely at vulnerable stretches,” reads the advisory.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has directed all administrative departments to remain fully prepared to tackle any eventuality.“Our priority is the safety of every citizen. All district and divisional administrations must stay alert, ensure readiness of control rooms, and respond swiftly to any distress calls,” he said.

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