Jammu and Kashmir is set to experience a six-day wet weather spell starting the night of January 29, 2025, as a series of Western Disturbances (WDs) move across the region. According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, scattered to fairly widespread light rain and snow are expected during this period, marking a significant shift from the currently dry weather conditions.

Weather Forecast in Detail

1. January 29-30:
   • Light rain and snow are expected at scattered to fairly widespread locations during the night of January 29, continuing into the morning of January 30.
   • Higher altitudes may witness isolated snow showers late Wednesday night.
2. January 31:
   • The weather is likely to remain mostly dry, with isolated light rain or snow showers in some areas.
3. February 1-2:
   • A fresh spell of light rain and snow is predicted across scattered to fairly widespread areas.
   • Middle and higher reaches may witness moderate snowfall during this time.
4. February 3:
   • Another brief spell of light snow is possible at scattered locations.
5. February 4-5:
   • The weather is expected to stay generally cloudy, with scattered to fairly widespread light rain and snow.

Temperature Updates

Despite the ongoing cold wave, the Kashmir Valley has seen slight improvements in night temperatures:

• Srinagar: Recorded a minimum temperature of -4.3°C on Monday night, up from -5.5°C the previous night. However, this remains 3.4°C below the seasonal average.
• Pahalgam: Dropped to -6.6°C, slightly colder than the previous night’s -6.4°C.
• Gulmarg: Improved to -5°C, which is 2.6°C above normal for this ski resort in Baramulla district.
• Other Locations: Qazigund recorded -4.1°C, Kokernag -1.6°C, and Kupwara -4.1°C.

The MeT office predicts a rise in minimum temperatures by 2-4°C across many locations starting January 29, bringing slight relief from the chill.

Read also: When Alcohol Sales Are Prohibited: Dry Days in Jammu and Kashmir

End of ‘Chillai Kalan’

The 40-day-long harshest winter period, known as “Chillai Kalan,” will conclude on January 30. During this phase, temperatures typically remain at their lowest, and the region experiences significant snowfall. Its end signals a gradual shift toward milder winter conditions.

Tourist & Travel Advisory

Visitors and residents are advised to prepare for variable weather conditions, especially in higher altitudes where moderate snowfall is possible. Travelers on key routes like the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway should stay updated on road conditions as snow may impact connectivity.

Stay tuned for further updates from the Meteorological Centre Srinagar as the weather system unfolds.