A fresh weather update has arrived for Jammu and Kashmir, indicating the return of heavy snowfall. Starting tomorrow morning, a Western disturbance is poised to affect Jammu, Kashmir, and UT Ladakh, leading to light to moderate rain and snow expected across most regions, with forecasts extending until February 5.
According to weather experts, the impact of this weather system will be more pronounced over South Kashmir and the Chenab Valley than central or North Kashmir areas. Locations popular with tourists, including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Doodhpatri, and Pahalgam, are likely to experience snowfall starting tomorrow morning. The peak of this weather activity is anticipated from tomorrow afternoon through the morning of February 5, during which heavy snowfall may hit the higher reaches of South Kashmir and the Chenab Valley.
Fresh snowfall is also anticipated along the Kargil-Drass axis, with light to moderate snow expected over the higher reaches and potential rain over Jammu’s plains. Significant snow accumulation is predicted, ranging from 10 inches to two feet in certain higher altitudes of South Kashmir. Some plains, particularly those in Shopian and Kulgam, have about a 60% chance of also seeing several inches of snow, and central and North Kashmir has approximately 45% chance of experiencing light snowfall.
Official sources from the Meteorological Department confirmed these predictions, noting cloudy weather conditions prevailing through February 5, alongside light to moderate precipitation expected across many areas until then. The forecast shows snowfall of up to eight to ten inches could occur within the higher reaches of the Chenab Valley and the Pir Panjal range.
After February 5, weather conditions are expected to stabilize, becoming dry and partly cloudy from February 6 to 8. Nevertheless, meteorologists warn of another potential spell of rain and snow between February 9 and 10, with conditions returning to being mainly cloudy and possibly leading to more scattered precipitation.
Residents and visitors continue feeling the chill as they wear traditional “Pherans,” combatting the cold temperatures experienced recently. Despite the weather conditions easing after Chillai Kalan, highlights such as the minimum temperature dropping to minus 1.8°C, primarily affecting Srinagar, are still prevalent.
Other recorded temperatures have included: minus 4.6°C at Pahalgam, 6.8°C at Jammu, and several others reflecting the region's chilly demeanor. The end of Chillai Kalan—a harsh and frigid forty-day winter period—indicates the Valley is transitioning as frozen water bodies begin thawing and familiar activities resume around Dal and Manasbal lakes.
Winter sports enthusiasts have been less satisfied this season due to disappointing snowfall levels at famed sites like Gulmarg. Historically one of India's top skiing destinations, Gulmarg's slopes are not matching their typical snowy allure, leading to fewer visitors and disappointed ski racers. Expectations for heavy winter conditions have yet to be met, so upcoming forecasts are being anxiously monitored.
Looking forward, spring seems to be slowly approaching Jammu and Kashmir, with anticipated blooming floral displays and lush greenery rejuvenated by the moderations in temperature patterns nearing the end of March and early April. The pleasant environmental transition promises to attract both tourists and locals ready to revel in the beauty of the recovering landscapes.
The Meteorological Department has released travel advisories urging visitors and locals alike to remain informed about weather changes and road conditions, especially when traveling to more elevated or remote areas, where conditions may change swiftly.