The prolonged dry spell in Kashmir will likely conclude as snowfall and rain forecast moves in just before Chille Kalan. The Meteorological Department (MeT) predicts that from December 18 to 19, weather in the region will turn partly to generally cloudy, offering the chance of very light snowfall over higher elevations.
An official from the MeT confirmed that a more active western disturbance will impact the region from late on December 20 to December 21. This will bring light to moderate snowfall across higher areas and light to moderate rain in many locations of Jammu and Kashmir.
Weather forecasts indicate that December 22 will see generally cloudy skies with a likelihood of light rain or snowfall scattered across the region. From December 23 to 29, conditions are expected to slowly shift back to partly to generally cloudy.
As the month closes, December 30 and 31 may bring more clouds along with possibilities of light snowfall at isolated higher reaches of the Valley.
Snowfall Advisory Issued
The MeT Department issued a snow advisory stating that certain higher reaches—specifically in Kupwara, Bandipora, and Ganderbal districts—could experience moderate to heavy snowfall on December 21. Reminding travelers to stay cautious, they advised, “Transporters and visitors should plan their journeys wisely and heed traffic and administrative advisories.”
Temperatures Remain Above Normal
Interestingly, temperatures throughout Jammu and Kashmir have remained above normal in most areas. Srinagar recorded a maximum of 10.6°C, which is about 1.2°C above seasonal averages. The minimum temperature settled at 0.2°C. Meanwhile, Gulmarg noted a maximum temperature of 8.8°C, nearly 4°C above normal, with a minimum of 1.6°C.
In the northern part of Kashmir, Kupwara reached a maximum of 10.8°C and a minimum of -1.0°C. Pahalgam showed 11.2°C and 0.4°C, while Qazigund reported 13.0°C and 0.8°C.
In the Jammu region, records show that Jammu city had a maximum temperature of 22.3°C and a minimum of 11.0°C.
The MeT Department concluded that there has been no rainfall recorded at any station for the last 24 hours.
