Snowfall expected in higher reaches of Kashmir

Srinagar, Jan 19: The Meteorological (MeT) Department in Kashmir has forecasted light snowfall in the higher reaches of the region on January 20 and 24, with cloudy weather and the possibility of light rain or snow at scattered locations.
Director MeT, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, told Rising Kashmir that over the next 48 hours, the weather will remain generally cloudy, with a chance of light snow or rain across various parts of the region. “On January 22, the weather is expected to remain mostly cloudy, with light to moderate rain in the plains of Jammu and snowfall in many areas, especially in the higher reaches. The Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal Range may also experience light to moderate snowfall,” he said.
Dr. Mukhtar added that on January 23, cloudy conditions will persist, with the possibility of light rain in the plains of Jammu and scattered snowfall across the region. He also indicated that the weather is likely to remain generally dry on January 24 and 28. From January 29-31, there will be generally cloudy conditions with light rain or snow at isolated places.
The official advised tourists, travellers, and transporters to follow advisories from the administration and traffic department.
In the Kashmir region, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of -1.0°C, while Qazigund and Pahalgam saw temperatures dip further to -2.8°C and -3.0°C, respectively. Kupwara recorded -2.6°C, Kokernag -3.4°C, and Gulmarg experienced a much colder -5.4°C.
The higher reaches of the Valley, such as Sonamarg, recorded -2.0°C, and Shopian saw a low of -3.9°C. Bandipora and Anantnag did not report their minimum temperatures.
Meanwhile, Jammu recorded a minimum of 8.1°C, while Katra was at 9.4°C. Banihal and Batote were cooler, with temperatures of 1.9°C and 5.2°C, respectively. Other areas like Bhaderwah, Kishtwar, and Samba saw temperatures around 5°C, while Paddar was colder at -4.5°C.
In the Ladakh region, Leh experienced an even colder minimum temperature of -8.6°C. Kargil and Drass were also below freezing, recording -7.1°C.
Kashmir is currently experiencing the 40-day harshest winter period known as Chilai Kalan, which begins on December 21 and ends on January 31. During this time, the region experiences the highest likelihood of snowfall.
Meanwhile, during the past 24 hours, slow movement was observed on NH-44 due to the breakdown of heavy motor vehicles (HMVs), with single-lane traffic reported at Dalwas, Mehad, and between Marog and Kishtwari Pather due to snowfall across the NAVYUG Tunnel.
On Monday, subject to fair weather and improved road conditions, LMVs, passenger/private cars, and HMVs will be allowed from both sides on Jammu-Srinagar NHW (NH-44). TCU Jammu and Srinagar will coordinate with TCU Ramban for road condition updates.