The prolonged dry spell in Kashmir is likely to end on the eve of Chille Kalan, as the Meteorological Department forecasts snowfall in higher regions and rain in the plains. This weather change will commence after nearly two weeks of dry conditions.
According to a meteorologist, weather conditions from December 18 to 19 will remain partly to generally cloudy, with a chance of very light snowfall in isolated higher reaches of North and Central Kashmir. The forecast provides hope for relief for residents waiting for precipitation.
“A more active western disturbance is likely to impact the region from late night December 20 to December 21. This will bring light to moderate snowfall in higher reaches while the plains will experience light to moderate rain across many areas in Jammu and Kashmir,” the official stated.
On December 22, locals can expect generally cloudy weather with light rain or snowfall at scattered places. From December 23 to 29, the weather is likely to remain partly to generally cloudy, enhancing hopes for a winter wonderland. As the month closes, December 30 and 31 will see cloud cover with isolated light snowfall forecast for the higher reaches.
Snowfall Advisory Issued for Higher Reaches
The Meteorological Department has issued an advisory, warning that certain higher reaches in Kupwara, Bandipora, and Ganderbal districts may receive moderate to heavy snowfall, particularly on December 21. Travellers and transporters must plan their journeys carefully, adhering to traffic management and administrative advisories.
Current Temperatures and Weather Conditions
Meanwhile, temperatures across Jammu and Kashmir have remained remarkably above normal. In Srinagar, the maximum temperature hit 10.6°C, which exceeds the average by 1.2°C, whereas the minimum temperature settled at 0.2°C. In Gulmarg, the maximum climbed to 8.8°C, nearly 4°C higher than normal, while its minimum reached 1.6°C.
In north Kashmir, Kupwara recorded a maximum temperature of 10.8°C with a minimum of -1.0°C. Pahalgam saw a max of 11.2°C and a minimum of 0.4°C, while Qazigund registered 13.0°C for maximum and 0.8°C for minimum temperatures. In the Jammu region, Jammu city recorded a staggering maximum of 22.3°C and a minimum of 11.0°C.
The department confirmed that no rainfall occurred at any station in the past 24 hours, raising concerns, but the forecast brings renewed hope for the people of Kashmir.