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Kashmir weather: Srinagar experienced another sharply cold night on Thursday as temperatures across the Kashmir Valley slipped further below the freezing mark, reinforcing the grip of winter as the region approaches the end of its harshest cold phase. The cold wave was particularly intense in higher-altitude areas, with the popular ski destination of Gulmarg recording one of the lowest temperatures in the region.

Sub-zero Conditions Across the Valley

Weather data showed that Gulmarg registered a minimum temperature of minus 9 degrees Celsius, reflecting severe overnight cold conditions. Srinagar city also remained below freezing, recording a low of minus 0.6 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam, another well-known tourist location, experienced even colder conditions, with the mercury dipping to minus 4.5 degrees Celsius.

In the Jammu region, temperatures were comparatively milder but still reflected winter chill in several areas. Jammu city recorded a minimum of 7.2 degrees Celsius, while Katra stood at 6.4 degrees. Batote saw temperatures hover just above freezing at 0.9 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Banihal and Bhaderwah reported sub-zero readings of minus 2.6 and minus 3.4 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Weather Outlook for Coming Days

According to the Meteorological Department, the region is expected to witness generally dry and cloudy weather conditions through the evening of January 31. However, a change in weather is likely at the beginning of February. Forecasts indicate that February 1 and 2 may bring cloudy skies accompanied by light to moderate rain or snowfall across scattered to fairly widespread areas.

From February 3 to February 6, weather conditions are expected to stabilize again, with dry weather predicted across both the Kashmir Valley and Jammu division.

Avalanche Warnings in Vulnerable Districts

Authorities have issued avalanche warnings for higher reaches of Ganderbal, Bandipora, and Kupwara districts, urging residents and travelers to remain highly cautious. The advisory follows a recent avalanche incident in the Sonamarg area earlier this week.

Although the avalanche did not result in any casualties or damage to property, emergency response teams, including police and the State Disaster Response Force, were deployed promptly to inspect the affected area and ensure public safety.

Risk Levels Remain High

Officials have cautioned that the risk of further avalanches remains elevated due to existing snow accumulation and current weather patterns. Local police authorities in Ganderbal have described the avalanche threat as “very high,” particularly in upper-altitude zones, and have appealed to people to avoid unnecessary movement in vulnerable areas.

Road Connectivity and Travel Updates

Road connectivity across the region remains mixed. The Srinagar-Jammu national highway was reopened for two-way traffic on Wednesday after clearance operations. Authorities have advised commuters to strictly adhere to lane discipline to prevent traffic congestion and delays.

However, several key routes continue to remain closed due to heavy snowfall. The Srinagar-Leh highway and the historic Mughal Road are still blocked following significant snow accumulation at Zojila Pass and Pir Ki Gali. Additionally, Sinthan Pass, which connects Anantnag to Kishtwar, and Razdan Pass leading to Gurez Valley in Bandipora district, have not yet been reopened.

Air Services and Seasonal Transition

Flight operations at Srinagar International Airport resumed on Wednesday, bringing relief to stranded passengers and restoring air connectivity after weather-related disruptions.

Meanwhile, the region is nearing the conclusion of Chillai Kalan, the traditional 40-day period of intense winter cold that began on December 21 and is set to end on Friday. As the phase draws to a close, Jammu and Kashmir has already witnessed substantial snowfall in higher elevations and rainfall in the plains of the Jammu division. Srinagar and several other towns in the Valley also received their first significant snowfall of the season in recent days.

Tourism Sees a Winter Boost

Fresh snowfall has provided a boost to winter tourism, particularly in Gulmarg and Sonamarg. Hotel occupancy rates have reportedly reached full capacity in Gulmarg, while Sonamarg has recorded nearly 70 percent occupancy, reflecting strong tourist interest amid the snowy landscape.