RAIN, THUNDERSTORM ALERT ISSUED ACROSS J&K TILL MAY 13

Srinagar, May 11: Fresh weather advisory issued for Jammu and Kashmir has predicted generally cloudy conditions with intermittent spells of rain and thundershowers across many parts of the Union Territory from May 11 to May 12, with authorities warning of possible hailstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in several areas of both Kashmir and Jammu divisions.

According to the latest weather update, the ongoing weather disturbance is likely to impact multiple districts, particularly during afternoon and evening hours, prompting authorities to issue precautionary advisories for the public, farmers, and those associated with water transport activities.

Officials warned that isolated areas may witness moderate to intense showers accompanied by thunder activity, lightning strikes, and strong gusty winds, while some higher reaches could also experience hailstorm activity.

In view of the expected deterioration in weather conditions, authorities have advised suspension of boating and shikara operations during afternoon hours, particularly in vulnerable water bodies including Dal Lake and other tourist destinations where sudden gusty winds and thunderstorms may pose risks to public safety.

Farmers across various districts have also been urged to temporarily suspend farming and agricultural activities from May 11 to May 13 in view of the possibility of lightning, hailstorm, and strong winds that could endanger workers and damage standing crops or orchards.

Officials said the wet spell is also likely to bring a noticeable fall in daytime temperatures across several parts of Jammu and Kashmir after days of relatively warm weather.

The advisory assumes significance as weather-related incidents have already been reported from some upper reaches during recent days, including lightning-related livestock deaths in high-altitude grazing areas.

Authorities have appealed to the public to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary movement during thunderstorm activity, and follow official advisories issued by district administrations and disaster management agencies.

People living near vulnerable slopes and water channels have also been advised to stay alert during periods of heavy rainfall and gusty winds.