Kashmir parts receive fresh snowfall
Srinagar, Jan 16: Several areas of Kashmir including higher reaches received fresh snowfall while plains received light rains on Thursday.
Tourist destinations like Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and areas along the Zojila axis besides upper reaches of Budgam, Gurez, Bandipora, and Ganderbal received moderate snowfall. Light spell of snow was also recorded in Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian, Pulwama, and Baramulla, while Srinagar received snowflakes later in the day.
The Meteorological Department has forecast generally cloudy weather with light snow or rain at scattered places across Kashmir for the day. Isolated higher reaches may see more snow over the weekend. From January 20-21, light snow is possible in some areas, with more widespread snowfall likely between January 22-23.
Due to overcast conditions, minimum temperatures improved slightly, offering relief from the intense cold. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 2.5°C on Wednesday night, up from minus 4.8°C the previous night. Gulmarg, a popular skiing destination, recorded minus 7°C, while Pahalgam registered minus 4.2°C, an increase from minus 8.4°C. Other temperatures included minus 3.8°C in Qazigund, minus 3.5°C in Pampore's Konibal, minus 1.9°C in Kupwara, and minus 2.2°C in Kokernag.
In south Kashmir, areas like Daksum recorded 5 inches of snow, DK Marg in Kulgam 4 inches, and Achabal, Qazigund, and Dialgam 2 inches each. Kokernag received 2–3 inches, while Srinagar experienced light snowfall, adding to its winter charm. Meanwhile, Pahalgam remained the coldest spot in the Valley at minus 8.4°C.
The valley remains in the grip of "Chillai-Kalan," the harshest 40-day winter period that began on December 21. This phase, known for heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures, ends on January 30, followed by 20 days of "Chillai-Khurd" (small cold) and 10 days of "Chillai-Bachha" (baby cold).
The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open despite light snowfall at Qazigund and Jawahar Tunnel, though travelers were advised to exercise caution due to potential landslides and shooting stones. Several roads, including Bhaderwah-Chamba, Mughal Road, and Sinthan Top, remain closed due to adverse conditions. The Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) road awaits clearance.
Train services between Banihal and Baramulla were suspended as a precautionary measure until tracks were cleared of snow. The Qazigund-Baramulla service was similarly halted. The MeT Department expects clearer skies from January 19, followed by another wet spell starting January 20.
