Context
The higher reaches of Kashmir witnessed the first snowfall of the season on Friday, marking the onset of the autumn-to-winter transition in the Himalayan region. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the event was caused by an active western disturbance, with further precipitation expected in the coming days.
Key Highlights
- Areas Affected:
- Apharwat (Gulmarg) in Baramulla district and Sinthan Top in Anantnag district received fresh snowfall.
- Plains and Srinagar witnessed light rainfall.
- Meteorological Cause:
- The snowfall and rain were triggered by an active western disturbance (WD) — a weather system originating from the Mediterranean region, which brings moist air into northwestern India.
- IMD forecasts that the WD will continue to affect Jammu & Kashmir and adjoining areas over the next few days.
- Climatic Significance:
- The first snowfall generally signals the onset of the winter season in the western Himalayas.
- These early snow events help in replenishing glaciers and rivers that feed major north Indian basins like the Jhelum and Indus.
- Such events also influence local agriculture, especially apple harvesting and tourism in Gulmarg.