In Jammu  & Kashmir, the weather pattern is dry and without much disturbance in terms of rain and snowfall, during the ongoing 40-day coldest period called “Chillai Kalan” that began on December 21 last year. A weak Western Disturbance affected the Union Territory two days ago, bringing light rain and snowfall to parts of north Kashmir.

 

The Met officials said that from this day, partly to generally cloudy weather is expected, with isolated light rain or snow over some areas. Partly cloudy skies are likely from January 3-5 and January 7-8, while January 6 may see light snow over isolated higher reaches. The weather is expected to remain partly to generally cloudy from January 9-10 and partly cloudy from January 11-13. The minimum night temperatures recorded have been fluctuating.

 

 

Talking to Akashvani News Srinagar, Director of Met Department Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said:  Meanwhile, a significant number of tourists from across the country have thronged the Kashmir region to celebrate the onset of the New Year 2026.

 

Residents and tourists have been advised to stay updated on the local weather alerts as the region prepares for New Year’s festivities under cold and wet conditions. With Gulmarg recording nearly 100 per cent occupancy for the New Year week celebrations, the Kashmir Tourism Department are organising several events for the next couple of weeks to provide facilitation to the tourists to enjoy a stay at various iconic tourist destinations like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam,  Dodhpathri and other attractive places across the Kashmir Region.

 

Talking to Akashvani News Srinagar, Director Tourism Kashmir, Syed Qamar Sajad said: The Tourism Department is focusing this year on augmenting tourism infrastructure, employment and destination grooming to build a stronger and more sustainable tourism season ahead.