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Srinagar, Oct 20: The weatherman here has predicted light  snowfall in plains of Jammu and Kashmir on October 23, saying that the fresh Western Disturbance would likely affect the Union Territory from October 22 evening.

Deputy Director Meteorological department, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad said that there is a possibility if light snowfall in plains and heavy snowfall would likely occur in higher reaches of J&K on Saturday.

“According to the forecast, the fresh Western Disturbance would likely affect J&K from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon,” he said, adding that the main activity would be on Saturday.

He said on Saturday, the plains as well as the higher reaches of J&K would likely receive snowfall, adding that the weather would start gradually improving from Sunday noon.

The MeT has also issues an advisory for farmers and said there is a possibility that air and the road traffic would remain affected during the period.

“An active Western Disturbance will most likely to affect J&K and adjoining areas from 22 October (evening) to 24 October with peak activity on 23 October,” the Advisory issued by MeT reads.

“Under the influence of above system. Widespread Moderate Rain/snow is expected in Jammu, Kashmir and light rain/snow at many places of Ladakh region during 224 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/lightning and gusty winds (30-40 KMPH) in Jammu division is also expected,” it added.

The system will most likely to cause heavy snow mainly in upper reaches of Kashmir (Gulmarg, Pahlgam. Sonamarg (Zojila pass), Baramulla, Bandipora (Gurez & Tulail Valley), Kupwara (Machil and Karnah Sector), Shopian, Qazigund-Banihal axis, Pirpanjal Range of Jammu Division, Drass (Gumri & Minamarg) and Zanskar subdivision of Ladakh UT, it added.

The advisory further reads that the fresh WD may lead to temporary disruption of air and surface traffic mainly on Jammu-Srinagar/Srinagar-Leh/Leh-Manali National Highway, Mughal road and other major hilly roads.

“Landslides and shooting stones in vulnerable spots of Jammu-Srinagar/Srinagar-Leh

National Highway,” it said, adding that the electricity disruption and Temporary water logging in low lying areas.

It may damage to horticultural crops and dip in day temperature, the advisory added.

The farmers have been advised to harvest their crops/fruits and necessary pruning of trees while the commuters are advised to plan their journey according to weather advisory.(KNO)