Srinagar: After a brief dry spell, winter has reasserted itself across Jammu and Kashmir. A weak Western Disturbance (WD) has triggered light to moderate snowfall across the higher reaches of the Valley this Friday late afternoon. While the plains of Srinagar and surrounding districts remain largely cloudy, the alpine regions have turned white, adding to the seasonal snow cover during the ongoing “Chillai Kalan” (the 40-day harshest winter period).
Snow Accumulation: Gurez, Zojila, and Tourist Hubs
According to details from the Meteorological (MeT) Department Srinagar, the snowfall was primarily concentrated in the high-altitude regions of north and central Kashmir. Gurez Plains received approximately two inches of fresh snow, while the strategic Zojila Pass recorded nearly two inches, impacting visibility and movement on the Srinagar-Leh axis.
Other notable accumulations reported by officials include:
- Sadhna Pass: 2 to 3 inches.
- Drass: 1 inch.
- Gulmarg & Sonamarg: Light snowfall with a thin coating (approx. 1 cm).
Weather observers stated that while the current system is “weak,” it has effectively lowered day temperatures and reinforced the winter snowpack in the mountains, which is vital for the region’s water resources.
Highway Advisory and Road Status
The fresh snowfall has made high-altitude roads extremely slippery. The Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag Highway (NH-244) remains closed for vehicular movement due to fresh snow accumulation. On the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumari (SSG) Road, traffic police have made anti-skid chains mandatory for all vehicles moving towards Kargil.
Commuters on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) are advised to travel during the daytime only. Night travel should be avoided due to the apprehension of shooting stones and landslides between Ramban and Banihal.
Key Highlights Box:
- Snowfall Intensity: 1 to 3 inches in higher reaches; light coating in tourist spots.
- Coldest Place: Pulwama recorded a low of -4.6°C on Thursday night.
- Road Closures: NH-244 (Sinthan Top) is closed; NH-44 is open but slow.
- Upcoming Spell: A much stronger Western Disturbance is forecast between Jan 22 and Jan 26.
FAQ Section
A1: No, Srinagar city is currently experiencing cloudy and overcast conditions. Snowfall in the plains is unlikely until after January 20, as per current MeT projections.
A2: Yes, authorities have issued an advisory mandating the compulsory use of anti-skid chains for all vehicles on the Tangmarg–Gulmarg road to prevent skidding.
Read Also:
AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Sign-off: Reported by KittoNews Desk | Edited by Senior Editor Gowhar Nabi.
- Source Transparency: Information is based on the official MeT Centre Srinagar Bulletin and J&K Traffic Police Advisory issued on January 16, 2026.
- Disclaimer: Weather conditions in mountainous terrain can change rapidly. Verify road status with Traffic Control Units (TCU) before travel. KittoNews is not responsible for travel disruptions.
- Community Question: Are you ready for the major snow spell predicted for next week? Let us know your winter preparations in the comments.
- Accountability Footer: Found an error or have a news tip? Email kittonews@gmail.com.
