Srinagar, April 19 -- Heavy rains swept across most parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday evening, marking the beginning of a two-day wet spell triggered by an active Western Disturbance. The sudden shift in weather is expected to intensify over the next 48 hours, bringing widespread rain, snowfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds.

According to the Meteorological Department, the current spell is likely to peak between the night of April 18 and late April 19. Light to moderate rainfall is forecast across the plains, while higher altitudes are bracing for fresh snowfall. The MeT centre in Srinagar has warned of heavy precipitation in several mid and upper-reach regions.

Among the most vulnerable areas are the Pir Panjal belt and mountain zo...