Weather Forecast: Light Snow and Rain Expected in Jammu & Kashmir Until January 23

weather

Weather Forecast: The Meteorological department today predicted very light snow at isolated higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir till January 21.

An official of Meteorological Centre Srinagar told that partly to generally cloudy with possibility of very light snow at isolated higher reaches can’t be ruled out during January 18-19.

From January 20-21 the weather will likely be generally cloudy with possibility of light snow at isolated to scattered places of Jammu and Kashmir, he said.

He also said on January 22, the weather will likely be generally cloudy with possibility of light rain (in Jammu plains), and snow at scattered places of Kashmir and Jammu divisions.

On January 23, there will be generally cloudy with possibility of light to moderate rain (in Jammu plains), while snow at many places of J&K, he said.

The weather will likely remain generally dry during January 24-27, he said, and advised tourists, travelers and transporters to follow advisories from administration and traffic department.

Authorities Close Roads in Jammu and Kashmir Amidst Weather Concerns

Authorities Close Roads

The authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have closed several roads, including Gurez-Bandipora, Mughal, and Sinthan Top roads as a precautionary measure in view of weather forecast, officials said.

An official said that the Srinagar-Jammu national highway is open for traffic, while commuters have been advised to follow lane discipline, as overtaking may cause congestion.

“Passengers are advised to travel on Jammu-Srinagar road during the day and avoid unnecessary stops between Ramban and Banihal due to the risk of landslides or shooting stones,” he said.

He added that traffic will be allowed on the SSG road after receiving a green signal from BRO. “However, Bhaderwah-Chamba Road, Mughal road, and Sinthan road remain closed. While the Karnah-Kupwara road is through,” he said.The weather department has predicted light rain or snow at scattered places between January 16 and 19 in Jammu and Kashmir—(KNO)

Light Snow Likely in Higher Reaches of J&K on January 16, Says Met Department

Weatherman forecast

The Met department today predicted light snow at isolated higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir during January 16 early morning. It however forecast no significant weather activity in J&K till January 19.

An official of Meteorological Centre Srinagar said that weather conditions will likely remain cloudy and dry today.He said the weather will remain cloudy from January 15-16, with possibility of light sow at isolated higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir during January 16 early morning.

From January 17-19 the weather conditions will likely remain cloudy, while as from January 21-21 there is a possibility of cloudy weather conditions with light snow at isolated to scattered places of Jammu and Kashmir.

The official however said there is overall nothing significant weather activity till January 19.He further advised tourists, travelers and transporters to follow advisories from administration and traffic department to avoid any inconvenience.

Dry and Clear Weather Forecasted in Jammu and Kashmir Till January 16: Meteorological Centre Srinagar

Meteorological Centre Srinagar

The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has forecasted mainly dry and clear weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir till January 16 in the region.

As per MeT, on January 12, the skies will be partly cloudy, providing occasional sunshine. This pattern is expected to transition to mainly clear weather on January 13, with dry conditions prevailing throughout the day.

“On January 14, the forecast predicts generally cloudy skies, but the weather will remain dry. A slight change is expected between January 15 and 16, with generally cloudy conditions. Light snow is likely at isolated higher reaches during the early morning hours of January 16,” it said.

The MeT further said that from January 17 to 19, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy, without any significant changes.

Meanwhile MET Centre has issued an advisory for tourists, travelers, and transporters to follow administrative and traffic guidelines, especially in regions prone to snowfall.

PM Modi to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel on January 13, Transforming Sonamarg into All-Weather Destination

PM Modi

PM Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on January 13, 2025, to inaugurate the much-awaited Z-Morh Tunnel, a crucial infrastructure project on the Srinagar-Sonamarg road.

This development will transform Sonamarg into an all-weather tourist destination, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the year.

The Z-Morh Tunnel, spanning 6.5 km, bypasses the avalanche-prone Gagangir-Sonamarg stretch, which often remains blocked during winter. The tunnel will significantly reduce travel time, enabling vehicles to cover the stretch in just 15 minutes.

It also enhances connectivity to key locations such as Baltal (Amarnath cave), Kargil, and the Ladakh region.

Strategically located on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, the tunnel will bolster military logistics, ensuring year-round access for the Indian armed forces. It is also expected to provide a major boost to tourism, allowing Sonamarg to attract visitors throughout the year.

The project has created employment opportunities during its construction phase and will further benefit the local economy by enhancing tourism and allied industries like hospitality, transport, and retail.

The construction of the tunnel began in 2018, facing several challenges due to the rugged Himalayan terrain and extreme weather. The project suffered a setback on October 20, 2024, when terrorists attacked a workers’ camp at Gagangir, resulting in the tragic deaths of seven civilians. Despite these challenges, the project continued, demonstrating resilience and commitment to development.

The Z-Morh Tunnel, along with the adjacent Zojila Tunnel, marks a significant step in improving connectivity in the region, strengthening both economic growth and national security. (KNS)

No Significant Weather Activity Predicted in Kashmir Till January 16: Meteorological Centre Srinagar

weather

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has predicted no significant weather activity in the region until January 16. From January 8-10, the weather will generally be dry, with cloudiness expected on the evening and night of January 10.

On January 11, the weather will likely be generally cloudy with light rain in the plains of Jammu and snow at isolated higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir divisions. From January 12-14, the weather is expected to remain dry, while from January 15-16, cloudy conditions with light snow at isolated to scattered places are anticipated.

Cold wave conditions at isolated places will likely continue. Tourists, travelers, and transporters are advised to follow advisories from the administration and traffic department.

Ramban on High Alert for Indian Meteorological Department Weather Advisory

First Snowfall of the Season

in view of the weather advisory issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), forecasting significant rainfall and snowfall in coming days, the District Administration Ramban, under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, has put essential services departments on high alert to ensure public safety and uninterrupted services.

The administration has appealed to the public to adhere to safety guidelines issued by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and avoid unnecessary travel during this period to minimize disruptions and ensure safety.

Departments including Revenue, PWD (R&B), PWD (Mechanical Engineering), PMGSY, Urban Local Bodies, JPDCL, Jal Shakti, and Health & Medical Education have been directed to maintain readiness for snow clearance, meeting medical emergency and provide related logistical support. Field staff from these departments have been instructed to remain stationed at their respective headquarters for immediate assistance.

The District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC) located in the DC Office will be operational 24×7 to address emergencies and provide assistance. The public can reach for support through the helpline numbers: 01998-295500 / 01998-266790.

The Deputy Commissioner urged residents to cooperate with authorities, prioritize safety, and limit outdoor activities during adverse weather conditions. Essential services and emergency response teams are on standby to mitigate any challenges during this period.

Heavy Snowfall Expected in Kashmir from January 3-6: MeT Department

Weatherman forecast

The Meteorological Department has predicted a significant wet spell in Jammu and Kashmir, with moderate to heavy snowfall expected across various regions between the evening of January 3 and the afternoon of January 6.
Speaking exclusively to KNS, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Director of the MeT Department in Srinagar, outlined the forecast, highlighting the main activity period for snowfall as January 4-5, particularly in the plains and lower reaches, where moderate snowfall is anticipated. 
He further stated that middle reaches could experience heavy snowfall, with some areas potentially accumulating up to one foot of snow. In higher reaches, there are chances of heavy to very heavy snowfall, posing high to extreme risk.
Dr. Ahmed emphasized, “Overall, a major wet spell is developing, and indications suggest high chances of substantial snowfall in the coming days. The ongoing cold wave is likely to subside due to this spell, with minimum temperatures improving slightly in many areas, especially in the hills.”
He also reassured that no significant cold wave is expected until at least January 6-7.

Advisory for Travelers and ResidentsDr. Ahmed urged travelers, tourists, and transporters to plan their journeys carefully, given the potential for disruption between January 3 and 6. “Follow the administration’s and traffic department’s advisories. Slippery roads and accidents are common during this period, especially in the mornings and evenings. Drive cautiously to avoid mishaps,” he said.
He also highlighted the risk of fire accidents and suffocation-related incidents caused by heating devices. “Ensure that heating gadgets, whether electric or gas-based, are never left unattended. Always switch them off properly before sleeping. Such precautions can prevent accidents and save lives,” he advised. (KNS)

Kashmir Faces Intense Chillai Kalan Cold Spell; Light to Moderate Snow Expected in Early January

Kashmir Faces Intense Chillai Kalan Cold Spell

Kashmir is experiencing extremely cold weather, gripped by the intense Chillai Kalan, the hardest 40 day period of winter.

According to the Kashmir weather forecast, Srinagar recorded a temperature of – 3.5 degrees Celsius.Tourist destination places Like pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded a temperature of -8.4⁰C and -11.5 ⁰ C.

Budgam and Ganderbal recorded temperatures of -4.4°C and -3.4°C, respectively. Meanwhile, Bandipora and Baramulla recorded temperatures of -0.6°C and -4.0°C.The Meteorological department predicts a severe cold spell will grip the region over the next 4-8 days.

According to the Meteorological department, December 31st is expected to be cold and dry. Starting January 1st, two consecutive Western Disturbances will bring changes to J&K and surrounding areas. 1-2 Jan(Feeble WD):Light Snow at scattered places during 1st evening to 2nd morning. On 3-6 Jan(Moderate WD):Light to moderate Snow at many places.

Weather in Kashmir Valley to Improve from Sunday Afternoon, with Light Snow Expected from January 1

weather

The Meteorological Department (MeT) on Sunday has predicted an improvement in the prevailing weather  in Kashmir valley from this afternoon.

Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director MeT, the region is likely to experience mainly dry and clear weather from December 29 to December 31.During this period, the weather is expected to remain generally dry. However, two Western Disturbances (WDs) are likely to impact Jammu and Kashmir and adjoining areas from January 1 onwards.

He said the first, a feeble disturbance, is forecasted to bring generally cloudy skies and light snow at scattered places on the evening of January 1 through the morning of January 2.

“The second disturbance, expected from January 3 to January 6, is projected to be moderate, with light to moderate snowfall likely at many locations in Kashmir Division and scattered places in Jammu Division. Higher reaches may witness moderate to heavy snowfall during this period,” he said.

The MeT Director said that cold wave is anticipated in isolated areas on December 30 and 31.

“Tourists, travelers, and transporters are advised to exercise caution due to subfreezing temperatures, icy road conditions, and possible disruptions in both plains and higher reaches. Authorities recommend following administrative and traffic advisories during this period,” he said

Meanwhile owning to cloudy weather conditions, Srinagar recorded a low of -0.2°C, Qazigund -0.4°C, Pahalgam -8.0°C, Kupwara -1.0°C, Kokernag -1.8°C, Gulmarg -8.5°C, Sonamarg -10.8°C, Zojila -26.0°C, Bandipora -0.2°C, Baramulla -0.3°C, Budgam -0.2°C, Ganderbal -1.6°C, Pulwama 0.2°C, Anantnag 0.1°C, Khudwani 0.1°C, Kulgam -2.1°C, Shopian -2.3°C, and Larnoo -4.0°C.

Jammu recorded 6.1°C, Banihal 0.8°C, Batote -2.0°C, Katra 5.0°C, Bhaderwah -5.0°C, Kishtwar -1.4°C, Padder -7.9°C, Ramban 4.0°C, Poonch 1.5°C, Rajouri 0.4°C, Samba 3.9°C, Kathua 7.2°C, Reasi 5.2°C, and Udhampur 3.6°C.

In UT of Ladakh, Leh recorded -11.6°C, Kargil -10.2°C, and Drass -20.7°C.

MeT also issued advisory for passenger traffic plying on Jammu-Srinagar NHW.

It said that commuters are advised to follow lane discipline, overtaking will cause congestion, drive with caution as the road is slippery between Banihal and Qazigund.

However, Mughal Road/Sinthan road/Sonamarg-Kargil road/ Bhaderwah-Chamba Road are still closed due to snow accumulation.