Srinagar, Oct 20 (KNS): The Indian Meteorological Department on Wednesday issued a weather advisory predicting heavy rainfall and snowfall in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

As per the details available with Kashmir News Service (KNS), the copy of the advisory has been submitted to the concerned divisional commissioners of both the UTs.

“An active Western disturbance will most likely affect J&K and adjoining areas from 22nd October (evening) to 24th October with peak activity on 23rd October,” the advisory reads.

It reads that under the influence of above system widespread moderate rain or snow is expected in Jammu, Kashmir and light rain or snow at many places of Ladakh region during 22nd to 24th October.

“Possibility of light snow in plains, moderate snow in middle reaches and heavy snow at isolated places over higher reaches of Kashmir Division and moderate rain with thunder and lightning and gyusty winds (30-40 KMPH) in Jammu division is also expected,” it reads.

It reads as that the system will most likely to cause heavy snow mainly in upper reaches of Kashmir including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Zojila Pass), Baramulla, Bandipora (Gurez and Tulail Valley), Kupwara (Machil and Karnah sector), Shopian, Qazigund-Banihal axis, Pirpanjal Range of Jammu Division, Drass (Gumri and Minamarg) and Zanskar sub-division of Ladakh UT.

“This may lead to temporary disruption of air and surface traffic mainly on Jammu-Srinagar, Srinagar-Leh and Leh-Manali national highways, Mughal road and other major hilly roads.

“Landslides and shooting stones in vulnerable spots of Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh national highways. Electricity disruption and temporary water logging in low lying areas. May cause damage to horticultural crops and dip in day temperature,” it reads.

The advisory has also cautioned the farmers to harvest their crops and fruits and necessary pruning of trees.

It has advised commuters to plan their journey according to weather advisory being issued. (KNS)