Srinagar: The “King of Winter”—Chillai Kalan—is not leaving without a final show of strength. As predicted by the Meteorological Department (MeT), a fresh wet spell has officially commenced across Jammu and Kashmir today, Monday, January 19, 2026.
While the current precipitation is light, the MeT office has issued a significant advisory for the coming weekend, warning of potential heavy snowfall that could disrupt connectivity.
Current Status (Jan 19)
Cloud cover has increased across the valley, leading to a slight improvement in night temperatures but bringing a chill to the day.
- Srinagar: Recorded a low of -3.2°C last night.
- Coldest Spot: Sonamarg remains the coldest at -8.9°C, followed by Pahalgam at -6.0°C.
- Forecast Today: Generally cloudy with light to moderate rain in plains and light snow in higher reaches (Gulmarg, Sonamarg).
The Big Forecast: Jan 23-25 Alert
The MeT Director has issued a specific warning for an incoming Active Western Disturbance.
- Jan 19-20: Light to moderate rain/snow at scattered places.
- Jan 21: Brief break with partly cloudy skies.
- Jan 23-24 (Critical): Moderate to Heavy Snowfall is expected in Kulgam, Shopian, and the Pir Panjal range. Heavy rains are predicted for the Jammu division.
Traveler Advisory (NH-44 & Mughal Road)
Traffic officials have advised commuters to plan their travel immediately or wait until the weather stabilizes.
- Risk Factor: The stretch between Ramban and Banihal is highly vulnerable to shooting stones during the heavy wet spell predicted for Jan 23-24.
- Avalanche Warning: Travelers to Gurez, Sonamarg, and Keran are advised to check the J&K DMA (Disaster Management Authority) Avalanche Warning level before venturing out, as fresh snow may trigger slides in upper reaches.
- Sinthan & Mughal Road: Likely to remain closed due to fresh snow accumulation.
Key Highlights:
- Today (Jan 19): Wet spell begins; Light rain/snow.
- Temperature: Srinagar Min -3.2°C; Gulmarg -5.6°C.
- Major Alert: Heavy snow predicted for Jan 23-24.
- Advisory: Check Avalanche status for Gurez/Sonamarg; Avoid highway travel on weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: Light rain or mixed sleet is expected in Srinagar today (Jan 19). Heavy snow is unlikely in the city until the Jan 23 system arrives.
A: As of Monday morning, the highway is open, but slippery conditions are reported in Banihal. Travelers should check the Traffic Control Unit (TCU) update before starting.
A: The 40-day harsh winter period ends on January 30, 2026.
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PART C: AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: Gowhar Nabi | Edited by: Senior Desk
- Source Transparency: Weather data sourced from MeT Centre Srinagar Bulletins (Jan 19) and Traffic Police Advisories.
- Community Question: Are you ready for one last spell of snow, or are you waiting for spring? Share your photos with us!
- Accountability: Found an error? Email kittonews@gmail.com.
