MeT Department Forecasts Heavy Rain and Snow in Kashmir From Today: Key Alerts for Residents
The MeT department has predicted rain and snow in Kashmir starting today, prompting advisories for residents and travellers in the region
All roads in the higher reaches of Kashmir were closed on Tuesday as the Meteorological (MeT) Department forecast rain and snow in J&K during the next two days beginning Tuesday afternoon.
The MeT Department has forecast snow in the higher reaches and rain in the plains during the next two days. Travellers and transporters have been advised to follow the advisory by the traffic department and the various administrative departments.
Authorities have closed traffic on the Srinagar-Leh highway, Sinthan Pass in Anantnag district, Margan Pass connecting the valley with Kishtwar district of Jammu and the Mughal Road connecting the Valley with the Jammu division. Traffic on the Srinagar-Jammu highway is, however, continuing.
Srinagar city recorded a minimum temperature of one degree Celsius, Gulmarg minus 1.6 and Pahalgam minus 1.2 degrees.
Jammu city had 8.6 degrees Celsius, Katra town 9.8, Batote 7.7, Banihal 5 and Bhaderwah 3.8 degrees as the night’s lowest temperature.
The 40-day-long period of harsh winter cold called the ‘Chillai Kalan’ started on December 21 and will end on January 30.
The hopes of Kashmiris for a bountiful snowfall depend on the Chillai Kalan. All the perennial water reservoirs in the mountains are replenished by the snowfall during the Chillai Kalan. These reservoirs sustain various rivers, streams, springs and lakes during the summer months. The snow, after the Chillai Kalan is over, melts quickly and does not help replenish the perennial reservoirs.
It is for this very reason that the first snowfall during Chillai Kalan is a celebratory event in Kashmir. Friends and relatives greet each other on the first snowfall and invite each other to feasts.
The plains of Kashmir Valley have so far not received this season’s first snowfall. Water woes have already hit most places in the Valley as rivers, streams, springs, and wells are running at their lowest these days.
The India Meteorological Department (MeT) has issued a weather alert for Kashmir, predicting rain and snowfall starting today. Residents, tourists, and commuters are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions as the region braces for wet and cold conditions. This advisory comes as a result of an active western disturbance affecting northwestern India, particularly the higher altitude areas of Jammu & Kashmir.
According to the MeT department, moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in lower-altitude areas, while snowfall is likely over higher mountain regions. Temperatures in Kashmir are also expected to drop due to cloud cover and precipitation, potentially impacting daily life and travel schedules.
Cities like Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg are likely to witness intermittent snow, while rain may be more frequent in towns situated at lower elevations. The MeT has cautioned that certain regions may experience localized heavy rainfall and wet snowfall, leading to slippery roads and possible disruptions in transportation.
Travelers and daily commuters are advised to remain cautious, as heavy rain and snow can lead to road blockages, traffic delays, and reduced visibility. Mountainous routes connecting remote villages may become temporarily inaccessible due to snow accumulation.
Authorities have urged drivers to avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas and to use proper winter tyres and chains if movement is essential. Public transport services may also face delays or cancellations in some regions. Tourists visiting popular hill stations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg are advised to check weather updates regularly and plan their trips accordingly.
Local authorities have asked residents to prepare for wet and cold conditions. People living in low-lying areas prone to waterlogging are advised to take precautionary measures to protect property and avoid venturing out during heavy rainfall.
Electricity and communication networks may also be affected in certain areas due to snow or wind-related incidents. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors when possible and keep emergency supplies such as warm clothing, food, and essential medicines ready.
The MeT department explained that the current weather pattern is influenced by a western disturbance, a common meteorological phenomenon during the winter months in northern India. These disturbances bring moisture-laden winds from the Mediterranean region, resulting in rain at lower elevations and snow in mountainous areas.
Such disturbances are crucial for the region as they contribute to the replenishment of water sources and maintain ecological balance. However, they also pose challenges in terms of transportation, infrastructure, and daily life due to adverse weather conditions.
Experts have issued several safety tips for both residents and tourists to navigate the expected weather:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain or snow.
- Drive cautiously on slippery roads and maintain safe distances.
- Keep warm clothing and blankets ready in case of power outages.
- Stock up on essentials like food, water, and medicines.
- Stay updated with MeT alerts through official channels.
- Use public transport carefully, as services may be delayed.
The MeT has indicated that the rain and snowfall may continue intermittently over the next 48–72 hours, gradually easing after the western disturbance moves away. Travelers planning trips to Kashmir in the coming days should monitor updates closely to avoid disruption.
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