Key Highlights
- Start Time: Snowfall to commence from Thursday evening (Jan 22).
- Intensity: Moderate snow in plains; Heavy snowfall in higher reaches (Gulmarg, Sonamarg).
- Cold Wave: Srinagar recorded a low of -3.4°C on Thursday morning, a dip from the previous night.
- Highway Alert: High risk of blockage on NH-44 and Mughal Road from Friday morning.
- Air Traffic: Visibility may drop, impacting morning flights on Jan 23.
Srinagar: The “wait for white” is over. After a prolonged dry spell during the core of Chilla-i-Kalan, the Meteorological Department has confirmed that a robust Western Disturbance is actively affecting the region.
1. The Forecast: Thursday Night is Critical
According to MeT officials, the weather system will build up starting late Thursday afternoon.
- Tonight (Jan 22): Expect light to moderate snowfall to begin across North Kashmir and higher reaches, spreading to Srinagar and Central Kashmir by night.
- Tomorrow (Jan 23): This is the peak activity day. Widespread moderate snow is expected in the plains, with heavy accumulation likely in ski resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
2. Temperature Plunge
Despite the approaching clouds (which usually trap heat), the cold wave remains severe.
- Srinagar: The summer capital recorded a minimum of -3.4°C on Thursday morning, leading to frozen taps and icy roads in the interiors.
- Dal Lake: Freezing fringes were observed this morning, a common sight during the harsh 40-day winter period which ends on Jan 30.
3. Critical Travel Advisory & Safety Warning
With “heavy falls” predicted, the Traffic Police have issued preliminary cautions.
- Road Safety Warning: Roads are already extremely slippery. Extreme caution is advised following the tragic accident reported today at Khanni Top (Doda), where an Army vehicle skidded off the road due to treacherous conditions.
- Jammu-Srinagar Highway (NH-44): Travelers are advised to avoid travel on Friday (Jan 23) unless necessary. The stretch near Banihal and Ramban is prone to shooting stones and snow accumulation.
- Snow Chains: Vehicles moving towards tourist spots like Gulmarg and Sonamarg must be equipped with anti-skid chains. Authorities are likely to restrict non-4×4 vehicles at Tangmarg.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: As of Thursday afternoon, it is overcast and freezing. Snowfall is expected to start late in the evening or night.
A: Morning flights face a high risk of delay or cancellation due to low visibility and snow accumulation on the runway. Check status before leaving for the airport.
A: The main intensity is for Jan 23. A brief break is expected on Jan 24-25, followed by another spell around Republic Day (Jan 26).
Emergency Helpline Numbers
Keep these handy for the upcoming snow spell:
- Traffic Control Unit (Jammu): 0191-2459048 / 9419147732
- Traffic Control Unit (Ramban/NH-44): 9419993745 / 1800-180-7043
- Police Control Room (Emergency): 112
- Disaster Management: 1070
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: Kitto Weather Desk | Source: News Arena India / MeT Department (Jan 22, 2026).
- Disclaimer: Weather patterns can change rapidly. Follow official Traffic Police advisories (@Traffic_hqrs) for real-time road status.
