Srinagar, Jan 03 (KNS): The meteorological department Srinagar on Monday issued weather advisory after forecast of widespread snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories. 

According to the advisory, a copy of which lies with Kashmir News Service (KNS), two successive Western Disturbances are most likely to affect the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and adjoining areas from 3rd January (late night) to 09 January (forenoon).

It reads that under the influence of these weather systems, widespread moderate rain and snow is expected in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regions. "Light rain or snow would commence at a few places of Kashmir from 3rd January evening and thereafter increase in intensity & distribution. Main activity of this system will be occurrence of moderate to heavy rain or snow, most likely during 5 and 8 January and gradual decrease thereafter."

It further reads that the system is likely to cause heavy rain or snow mainly in Pirpanjal Range of Jammu Division (from Bhaderwah to Banihal), upper reaches of Kashmir (Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Baramulla and Kupwara) and Drass sub-division of Ladakh UT.

It said that this may lead to disruption of surface and air traffic including closure of Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, Srinagar-Leh National Highway (Zojila Pass), Leh-Manali Highway, Mughal Road, and Sadhna pass.

It also said that there area chances of snow avalanches and landslides in vulnerable areas, disruption of power supply in hilly areas, water logging in low lying areas and further dip in day temperatures. 

The Met department also asked the people in snow bound areas to avoid venturing into sloppy areas during heavy snow and maintain proper ventilation. (KNS)