Archive · 19 Jan 2026
Kashmir Faces Intense Cold and Wet Weather
Kashmir is very cold right now, with places like Sonamarg reaching almost -9°C.
This is the coldest part of winter called 'Chilla-i-Kalan', which lasts for 40 days.
The weather department says there will be a lot of rain and snow from January 22 to 28 because of two big weather systems called Western Disturbances.
These systems will bring heavy snow to many places, including Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
People are being told to be careful, especially in areas where there might be avalanches or landslides.
Travelers should plan their trips carefully because the weather might make roads and flights difficult.
Kashmir is experiencing intense cold with Sonamarg recording -8.9°C, the lowest in the valley.
Srinagar recorded a low of -4.7°C, while other regions like Shopian (-6.7°C) and Pahalgam (-6°C) also saw significant drops.
The Kashmir Valley is currently in 'Chilla-i-Kalan', the 40-day harshest winter period, which ends on January 30.
Two Western Disturbances are expected to bring widespread rain and snowfall from January 22 to 28, with peak activity on January 23 and 27.
Authorities have warned of potential disruptions to transport and advised residents and travelers to be cautious.
- Who
- Residents, tourists, and authorities in Kashmir
- What
- Intense cold conditions and widespread rain and snowfall forecast
- When
- During 'Chilla-i-Kalan' (December 21 - January 30) and January 22 to 28
- Where
- Kashmir Valley, including Srinagar, Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and other regions
- Why
- Due to the 40-day harshest winter period and Western Disturbances
Residents and Authorities
Tourists and Travelers
Weather Impact
Residents and Authorities
Residents are advised to stay cautious and avoid avalanche-prone areas.
Tourists and Travelers
Tourists and travelers are advised to plan their journeys carefully and stay updated on weather and road conditions.
- Coldest Place
- Sonamarg (-8.9°C)
- Srinagar Low
- -4.7°C
- Shopian Low
- -6.7°C
- Pahalgam Low
- -6°C
- Gulmarg Low
- -5.6°C
- Qazigund Low
- -4.8°C
- Kokernag Low
- -2.2°C
- Kupwara Low
- -4.8°C
- First Western Disturbance
- January 22 to 24
- Second Western Disturbance
- January 26 to 28
- Peak Activity Days
- January 23 and 27
Sources
Cold conditions intensify in Kashmir; IMD forecasts spells of wet weather
Light snowfall in Himachal's higher hills; heavy snowfall likely from Jan 22
Western disturbances to bring widespread snowfall across J&K from January 22 to 28
IMD Update: Heavy snow & rain to hit J&K, Punjab, Himachal, UP, Delhi
