Srinagar: As the 40-day harsh winter period ‘Chillai Kalan’ enters its final phase, Kashmir continues to reel under sub-zero temperatures. The Meteorological Department (MeT) has issued a fresh forecast predicting a weak Western Disturbance to impact the region starting today, January 16, bringing light snow to the higher reaches of Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and the Pir Panjal range.
Cloud cover has led to a marginal rise in night temperatures, with the summer capital Srinagar recording a low of -3.9°C, offering slight relief from the -5.2°C recorded earlier this week.
Forecast: Wet Spell Ahead
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the MeT Centre Srinagar, confirmed that the current weather system is likely to bring “generally cloudy” skies with light precipitation at scattered places. “While the plains may witness isolated rains, the higher altitudes are expected to receive light snowfall between January 16 and 17. A more significant wet spell with moderate snow is predicted for January 23-24,” the MeT official stated.
Temperature Watch (Latest Minimums):
- Srinagar: -3.9°C
- Shopian: -6.1°C (Coldest in Valley)
- Pahalgam: -5.0°C
- Gulmarg: -3.2°C
NH-44 Traffic Update: Open but Slow
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remains open for two-way traffic today, January 16. However, officials report sluggish movement due to single-lane conditions at Dalwas, Mehar, and Kishtwari Pather.
“Traffic is plying from both sides, but breakdowns of heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) and slippery road conditions are causing delays. Commuters are advised to avoid night travel due to the risk of shooting stones,” a Traffic Control Unit (TCU) official confirmed.
Road Status:
- Mughal Road: CLOSED (Snow accumulation).
- Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road: Closed for maintenance.
Avalanche Warning for 5 Districts
The J&K Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has issued a ‘Medium Danger’ avalanche warning for the higher reaches (above 2,500 meters) of:
- Baramulla, Ganderbal, Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban.
Residents in these areas are strictly advised not to venture onto slopes for the next 24 hours. Emergency help can be reached by dialing 112.
Key Highlights
- Forecast: Light snow in upper reaches today; heavier spell expected Jan 23-24.
- Highway Status: NH-44 Open (Slow Movement at Dalwas).
- Coldest Spot: Shopian (-6.1°C).
- Safety: Avalanche warning active for 5 districts.
FAQ
A1: The MeT department predicts cloudy skies for Srinagar today (Jan 16), with a possibility of light rain. Significant snowfall is currently limited to higher altitudes like Gulmarg.
A2: Yes, NH-44 is open for two-way traffic on January 16, 2026. However, commuters should expect delays at Ramban due to single-lane stretches and potential HMV breakdowns.
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PART C: AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
Reported by KittoNews Desk | Edited by Gowhar Nabi
Source Transparency: Weather data sourced from [MeT Centre Srinagar], Traffic updates from [J&K Traffic Police Control Room], and Avalanche warnings from [JKDMA].
Community Question: With the temperature slightly improving, are you hoping for snow or sun in the coming days? Let us know in the comments.
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