Kashmir parts receive fresh snowfall; more expected from Jan 4-5: MeT

Srinagar, Jan 02: Several parts of Kashmir Valley on Thursday received fresh snowfall, intensifying the ongoing cold wave that has gripped Jammu and Kashmir severely.

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar today predicted light, moderate and heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir intermittently till January 6.

It said two western disturbances likely to hit Jammu and Kashmir from January 4 to 6, paving possibilities for snowfall in most places of J&K with peak activity during January 4 night till January 6 morning.

The weather will likely be generally cloudy with light snow at scattered places today, while there is a possibility of cloudy weather conditions with light snow at isolated higher reaches on January 3, the officials said.

They said from January 4 to 6 the J&K will likely be affected by moderate to strong western disturbance, with weather conditions generally cloudy with light to moderate rain (plains of Jammu), snow at most places of Jammu & Kashmir with peak activity during January 4 (night) to January 5 (late night)/January 6 morning, and improvement from January 6 afternoon.

The officials said that there is a possibility of heavy snow at isolated higher reaches during January 4 night to January 5 late night.

They also said that from January 7 to 10, the weather conditions will likely remain dry.

From January 11 to 12, there will be generally cloudy with light snow at isolated places.

The officials advised that in view of fresh snowfall, sub-freezing temperature and icy conditions over roads (plains and higher reaches), the tourists, travelers and transporters are advised to plan accordingly and follow advisories of administration and traffic department.

The cold wave continues to make its presence felt, with Srinagar recording a minimum temperature of -2.6°C, Gulmarg -8.6°C, and Pahalgam -4°C on Thursday. Jammu city registered a relatively milder 7.4°C, while Katra, Batote, Banihal, and Bhaderwah recorded 9°C, 4.6°C, 2.9°C, and 1.6°C, respectively.

The ongoing 40-day-long ‘Chillai Kalan,’ the harshest phase of winter that began on December 21, has led to partial freezing of lakes and water bodies across the Valley. The extreme cold has prompted health experts to issue warnings, particularly for children and the elderly.