Snowfall Blankets Higher Reaches of Kashmir; Wet Spell to Continue for 12 Hours
Tourism Boost Expected as Early Snowfall Adds Charm to Kashmir’s Hill Destinations
Srinagar, Nov 4: The higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir continued to receive snowfall on Tuesday evening, bringing a picturesque but chilly turn to the weather across the region. According to the Meteorological Department, light to moderate rain and snow are expected to persist for the next 12 hours, after which conditions are likely to gradually improve.
Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif reported that by 6 p.m., several high-altitude areas were blanketed in fresh snow. Razdan Top recorded around 2 inches of snow, while Sonamarg, Baltal, and the Zojila Pass witnessed 1–2 cm of accumulation. Similarly, Tulail in the Gurez Valley, Sinthan Top, Peer Ki Gali, and Gulmarg also experienced light snowfall, adding a wintry charm to the region’s scenic landscape.
Arif stated that the wet spell, marked by intermittent rain and snow, would likely continue for the next 8–10 hours before tapering off. “The current system is expected to weaken overnight, and mostly dry weather will prevail from tomorrow onwards,” he said. The forecast suggests that the upcoming 10–15 days across Jammu and Kashmir will remain largely dry, with only isolated weather activity over higher reaches.
The snowfall has brought much-needed respite to lower regions by cooling temperatures and replenishing water reserves in the form of high-altitude snow deposits. For the tourism industry, particularly in destinations like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam, the early snow signals the beginning of the winter tourist season and could attract visitors eager to witness the pristine landscapes.
While the snowfall has been light, authorities have advised commuters and travellers to exercise caution on mountain passes such as Zojila, Sinthan Top, and Peer Ki Gali, which are prone to slippery conditions during wet spells. The traffic police have also been monitoring road conditions closely to ensure the safe movement of vehicles, especially along the Srinagar–Leh and Mughal Road routes.
Experts note that such early-season snow is vital for maintaining the hydrological balance of the region. Snow accumulation in upper catchments contributes to water storage for rivers and reservoirs, supporting agriculture, power generation, and drinking water supply in the coming months. However, meteorologists have clarified that the current spell is not severe and falls within normal early-winter climatic patterns for the Himalayan region.
The MeT Department further indicated that night temperatures are likely to drop significantly in the coming days as the weather clears, leading to frost formation in parts of Kashmir Valley. Residents have begun preparing for the onset of colder conditions, marking the transition toward the valley’s traditional winter months.
This spell of snowfall, while brief, serves as both a visual delight and a reminder of Kashmir’s natural rhythm—where the first snow always carries a promise of both beauty and endurance.
