Heavy Snowfall and Rain Alert: Two Western Disturbances to Hit J&K and Ladakh from January 22

SRINAGAR, January 19, 2026 — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather advisory for Jammu & Kashmir and adjoining areas, warning of two consecutive Western Disturbances set to trigger widespread precipitation across the region starting later this week.

According to the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar, the first and more intense system is expected to impact the union territory between January 22nd and 24th, with peak activity forecasted for January 23rd.

This will be followed by a second, moderate intensity disturbance from the night of January 26th through the forenoon of January 28th, with its main impact felt on January 27th.Under the influence of these weather systems, the region is bracing for widespread light to moderate rainfall and snowfall.

Heavy falls are specifically predicted for the Pirpanjal Range, Chenab Valley, and the middle and higher reaches of South Kashmir, including popular destinations and passes such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Zojila, and the Bandipora-Razdan axis.

The advisory highlights several probable impacts, warning of potential disruptions to surface and air transport, particularly on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.

Authorities have urged travelers and tourists to plan their journeys according to the inclement weather. Furthermore, residents in snow-bound regions are strictly advised to avoid steep or avalanche-prone areas.

Farmers have been directed to suspend all irrigation and chemical spray activities during this period. The IMD also warned of possible landslides, mudslides, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–60 KMPH in vulnerable locations.