J&K Weather Update: Heavy Snow in Gurez as Higher Reaches Experience Fresh Accumulation; Dry Spell Predicted Through Mid-January

Srinagar January 01, 2026 :- Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a significant weather shift over the past 24 hours, with higher reaches recording light to moderate snowfall while several plains in the Jammu Division received light rainfall.

According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, the Gurez and Tulail areas were the most impacted, receiving a substantial 8 to 12 inches of snow. Other high-altitude regions also reported fresh accumulation, including the Sadhna Pass (6 inches), the Sonamarg-Zojila axis (5-8 inches), and popular tourist hubs like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, which recorded approximately 2 inches of snow.

Key mountain passes, including Mughal Road and Sinthan Top, also saw accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, affecting higher-altitude connectivity.The forecast for the first week of 2026 suggests a gradual stabilization of weather conditions.

For the remainder of January 1st, the region is expected to stay generally cloudy with scattered light rain or snow over higher reaches. However, a prolonged dry spell is predicted from January 2nd to 5th.

While a feeble system might bring isolated light snow to North and Central Kashmir on January 6th, the period from January 7th to 15th is expected to remain partly cloudy.

Crucially, extended-range forecasts indicate no major Western Disturbances (WD) until at least January 20th, signaling a break from heavy precipitation for the next few weeks.

In light of these conditions, the MET Department has issued a dual advisory for residents and commuters.

Moderate to dense fog is expected to blanket the plains of the Jammu Division over the next three days, significantly reducing visibility.

Travelers and transporters are strongly urged to monitor official traffic and administrative advisories, especially when navigating high-altitude passes or fog-prone highways, to ensure safety during the ongoing winter season.