<p><strong>Srinagar: </strong>Kashmir’s famed winter charm made a stunning return this week as heavy snowfall and intermittent showers swept across the Union Territory, bringing back the ethereal beauty that draws visitors from around the world.</p><p>After dry January and most part of February, late snow and rain reawakened the picturesque landscapes, blanketing the Valley in pristine white. The snowfall has blanketed the higher reaches of the mighty Pir Panjal and Zabarwan ranges, while lighter snow and rain lashed the plains of Srinagar and nearby towns.</p><p>The snowfall is expected to give some revival to the winter tourism industry. Last week authorities had to postpone the 5th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games, which were scheduled to be held in the famous ski resort of Gulmarg from February 22-25 due to insufficient snowfall.</p>.Rains across Jammu leave two dead.<p>Kashmir, renowned for its scenic beauty, had been experiencing an unusually mild winter this season, with snowfall largely restricted to the upper reaches of the mountains. The region’s famous tourist resorts, like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, had been waiting for a significant snow spell to boost their winter tourism, and this week’s weather has delivered just that.</p><p>“Though late, this snowfall will bring back the magic of Kashmir’s winter,” said Abdul Majeed, a tour operator. “This late burst of snow is perfect for tourists, as they can enjoy the real winter experience that Kashmir is known for—sledging, skiing, and cozy stays in Gulmarg hotels.”</p><p>The snowfall has also brought relief to the apple growers orchardists, who were beginning to worry about the effects of a warm winter. Farmers in the Valley, particularly those who rely on apple orchards, have expressed hope that the late snowfall will help prepare the soil for the spring season, ensuring a good harvest.</p>.Need to build Jammu and Kashmir where rural and urban divide is completely bridged: L-G Manoj Sinha.<p>The dry spell had also impacted water bodies across Kashmir, reducing river and stream flows, and raising concerns about drinking water shortages in summer and the potential decline in hydroelectric power generation.</p><p>Local MeT office has forecast that between February 27 and March 6, above-normal precipitation is expected, while near-normal precipitation is predicted between March 6 and March 13.</p><p>With more snow expected over the next few days, the Valley’s winter season seems to be stretching well into March, offering both locals and tourists one last taste of the season’s magic before the arrival of spring.</p>
<p><strong>Srinagar: </strong>Kashmir’s famed winter charm made a stunning return this week as heavy snowfall and intermittent showers swept across the Union Territory, bringing back the ethereal beauty that draws visitors from around the world.</p><p>After dry January and most part of February, late snow and rain reawakened the picturesque landscapes, blanketing the Valley in pristine white. The snowfall has blanketed the higher reaches of the mighty Pir Panjal and Zabarwan ranges, while lighter snow and rain lashed the plains of Srinagar and nearby towns.</p><p>The snowfall is expected to give some revival to the winter tourism industry. Last week authorities had to postpone the 5th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games, which were scheduled to be held in the famous ski resort of Gulmarg from February 22-25 due to insufficient snowfall.</p>.Rains across Jammu leave two dead.<p>Kashmir, renowned for its scenic beauty, had been experiencing an unusually mild winter this season, with snowfall largely restricted to the upper reaches of the mountains. The region’s famous tourist resorts, like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, had been waiting for a significant snow spell to boost their winter tourism, and this week’s weather has delivered just that.</p><p>“Though late, this snowfall will bring back the magic of Kashmir’s winter,” said Abdul Majeed, a tour operator. “This late burst of snow is perfect for tourists, as they can enjoy the real winter experience that Kashmir is known for—sledging, skiing, and cozy stays in Gulmarg hotels.”</p><p>The snowfall has also brought relief to the apple growers orchardists, who were beginning to worry about the effects of a warm winter. Farmers in the Valley, particularly those who rely on apple orchards, have expressed hope that the late snowfall will help prepare the soil for the spring season, ensuring a good harvest.</p>.Need to build Jammu and Kashmir where rural and urban divide is completely bridged: L-G Manoj Sinha.<p>The dry spell had also impacted water bodies across Kashmir, reducing river and stream flows, and raising concerns about drinking water shortages in summer and the potential decline in hydroelectric power generation.</p><p>Local MeT office has forecast that between February 27 and March 6, above-normal precipitation is expected, while near-normal precipitation is predicted between March 6 and March 13.</p><p>With more snow expected over the next few days, the Valley’s winter season seems to be stretching well into March, offering both locals and tourists one last taste of the season’s magic before the arrival of spring.</p>