Jammu Battles Cold Wave and Landslides, NH-44 Closed for Second Day

Persistent heavy rainfall in the Jammu region has resulted in cold wave-like conditions , with day temperatures plunging up to 7.2°C below normal , while multiple landslides have forced the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) to remain closed for the second consecutive day.

The India Meteorological Department said an active western disturbance has impacted the region for over 36 hours, bringing widespread rainfall, a sharp fall in temperatures , and disruption to normal life. Jammu city recorded a maximum temperature of 23.2°C , while Katra (20.5°C), Batote (14.2°C), Bhaderwah (16.6°C), and Banihal (17.1°C) also recorded temperatures well below seasonal averages.

Rainfall continued across the region, with Katra receiving 7.8 mm , followed by Jammu (5.8 mm), Bhaderwah (3.0 mm), Batote (2.4 mm), and Banihal (0.9 mm). The persistent rain caused waterlogging in several areas and intensified the cold wave-like conditions.

The Jammu-Srinagar NH , the only all-weather road connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country, remains blocked due to landslides at multiple points, including Digdol, Khooni Nallah, Shalgarhi, and Banihal . Officials said clearance operations are underway, but intermittent rainfall is hampering restoration. More than 400 vehicles remain stranded , and authorities have urged commuters not to travel until the road is fully cleared, advising them to check official traffic updates.

Despite adverse weather, the pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine continued without major disruption .

The IMD has issued a heavy rain alert , warning that two back-to-back western disturbances will peak on April 7 and 8 , affecting Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Districts such as Ramban, Doda, Kishtwar, and Poonch have been cautioned about flash floods, landslides, and shooting stones .

Humidity in Jammu rose from 53% in the morning to 88% in the evening , reflecting the moist and unsettled conditions . In contrast, the Kashmir Valley witnessed comparatively light rainfall, with Srinagar recording 17.3°C , slightly below normal.

The IMD has advised residents and travellers to remain cautious , especially in hilly and landslide-prone areas , as intermittent rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms are expected to continue over the next few days.