Srinagar, Dec. 18 -- A prolonged dry spell in Kashmir may be nearing an end as weather agencies have forecast snowfall and rainfall across the region over the coming days, coinciding with the onset of Chillai Kalan, the harshest 40-day winter period beginning December 21.

The Meteorological Department has issued an advisory warning of possible moderate to heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal on December 21. Light to moderate snowfall is also expected over other higher areas of the Kashmir division, while plains may receive light to moderate rain.

Scattered light rain or snow is likely on December 22, after which no major precipitation is forecast until the end of the month, officials said.

Two back-t...