Srinagar, March 25 -- The Meteorological department here on Friday forecast widespread rains and thunderstorms with snowfall over higher reaches at most places of Jammu and Kashmir till the weekend.

A meteorological department official said that there was a possibility of hailstorms in the plains on March 24 and 25.

"Thunderstorm may be accompanied by strong gusty winds. Rain likely to commence from (March 24) afternoon onwards," he said.

The weather department also urged farmers to "postpone" spraying of orchards while commuters intending to travel on highway and other hilly areas have been asked to confirm road status from concerned traffic police before starting their journey.

Regarding temperature, the MeT official said, Srinagar ...