Srinagar, July 27: At a time when weather updates have become crucial for millions of people in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during spells of heavy rainfall, cloudbursts, and snowfall, one name has emerged as a trusted source of accurate forecasts: Faizan Arif, the founder of the independent weather platform ‘Kashmir Weather.’
Hailing from the Nowkadal area of Srinagar’s old city, Faizan has transformed what began as a personal passion into one of the Valley’s most relied-upon weather forecasting platforms. His daily weather assessments have made him a household name, with people across Jammu and Kashmir eagerly awaiting his updates before planning travel, business, farming and other outdoor activities.
Unlike conventional weather bulletins that largely rely on official advisories, Faizan independently studies a wide range of global numerical weather prediction models, satellite imagery, atmospheric charts and forecast diagrams before issuing his assessments. His ability to analyze multiple datasets and interpret evolving weather patterns has earned him a reputation for producing remarkably accurate forecasts.
During periods of adverse weather, his forecasts are widely shared across social media platforms and messaging groups, often reaching thousands of people within minutes. His updates have become particularly valuable during recent spells of persistent rainfall, when people sought timely information about the possibility of cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides and road closures.
Speaking to the news agency Kashmir News Trust (KNT), Faizan Arif said weather forecasting has never been a commercial venture for him.
“I don’t earn anything from this. It is purely my passion,” he said.
Faizan holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication as well as a Master’s degree in Applied Physics, a discipline in which meteorology forms an important component. He believes his academic background, combined with years of practical experience, has enabled him to understand atmospheric behavior and interpret complex forecasting models with greater confidence.
“There are dozens of weather models that provide information in the form of charts and diagrams. Experience is the key. Over the years, I have learnt how to analyze these models and understand which signals are more reliable under different weather situations,” he said.
His independent platform, ‘Kashmir Weather,’ has steadily gained credibility among the public, and many journalists now regularly monitor his updates while reporting on weather-related developments. His detailed analyses often complement official forecasts and have simplified the work of reporters covering rainfall, snowfall and other weather events across Jammu and Kashmir.
Many people say they now wait for Faizan’s assessments during significant weather events, appreciating his detailed explanations, timely updates and consistent accuracy. His growing popularity reflects the trust he has built through years of dedicated observation and careful analysis.
Despite his success as an independent forecaster, Faizan says his ultimate goal is to join the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). He is currently preparing for the opportunity while continuing to provide weather updates to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
For Faizan Arif, weather forecasting remains more than a scientific exercise, it is a public service driven by passion, knowledge and an unwavering commitment to keeping people informed. [KNT]
