Key Highlights
- Temp Relief: Minimum temperatures have improved across the Valley; Srinagar recorded -2.4°C (up from previous night’s -3.4°C).
- Snow Alert: Two fresh Western Disturbances (WDs) are set to affect J&K starting January 22.
- Peak Activity: Moderate to heavy snowfall is predicted for Jan 23 and Jan 27.
- Dry Spell Ends: The systems are expected to break the prolonged dry spell in the plains of Kashmir.
- Travel Warning: Commuters on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway and Mughal Road should expect disruptions due to slippery conditions.
Kashmir Weather Update Jan 2026:
Srinagar: The grip of the freezing cold loosened slightly on Wednesday as clouds gathered over the Valley, leading to an improvement in night temperatures.
- Srinagar: The summer capital recorded a low of -2.4°C, a noticeable improvement from the previous night’s -3.4°C and the recent extreme low of -4.7°C.
- Coldest Spots: Sonamarg and Shopian remained the coldest recorded places in the Valley, shivering at -5.5°C.
- Ski Resorts: The famous ski destination of Gulmarg settled at -5.0°C, while Pahalgam recorded a low of -3.8°C.
1. The Forecast: Two Western Disturbances Incoming
Kashmir Weather Update Jan 2026: The “dry winter” complaint in the plains may soon end. MeT officials have confirmed that two strong Western Disturbances (WDs) are approaching the region.
- First Spell (Jan 22-24): A fresh system will make impact starting Thursday evening, peaking on January 23. Expect light to moderate snowfall in the plains and heavy snowfall in the higher reaches.
- Second Spell (Jan 26-27): A second, potentially stronger wave is expected to hit on Republic Day (Jan 26), with main activity on January 27.
2. Impact on ‘Chilla-i-Kalan’
The Valley is currently in the final leg of Chilla-i-Kalan, the 40-day harshest winter period that ends on January 30. While the higher reaches have received snow, the plains (including Srinagar) have remained largely dry this season. This upcoming wet spell is expected to be the season’s first major widespread snowfall for the plains.
3. Travel Advisory: Disruption Likely
With “heavy falls” predicted at isolated places, officials have warned of potential disruptions to:
- Surface Traffic: The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and Mughal Road may face closures due to landslides or snow accumulation near the Banihal/Jawahar Tunnel sector.
- Air Traffic: Low visibility and snowfall could impact flight operations at Srinagar Airport, especially on Jan 23 and 27.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: Light rain or snow is possible starting late Thursday night (Jan 22), with higher chances of accumulation on Friday, Jan 23.
A: Yes, currently the road is open. However, during the predicted snowfall (Jan 22-24), authorities typically mandate the use of 4×4 vehicles or anti-skid chains starting from Tangmarg to ensure safety on the slippery uphill stretch.
A: Chilla-i-Kalan ends on January 30, but winter continues with the 20-day Chilla-Khurd (small cold) followed by Chilla-Bachha (baby cold).
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PART C: AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: Kitto Weather Desk | Source: MeT Department (Jan 21, 2026).
- Disclaimer: Weather forecasts are subject to change. Travelers are advised to check the latest Traffic Police updates before undertaking long journeys.
- Accountability: Stuck in snow? Share updates at kittonews@gmail.com.
