IMD Issues Weather Advisory for J&K as Two Western Disturbances Set to Bring Rain, Snow

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

SRINAGAR JAN, 19:-The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather advisory warning of two back-to-back Western Disturbances likely to affect Jammu and Kashmir and adjoining areas later this month, bringing widespread rainfall and snowfall across the region.

According to the Meteorological Centre, Rambagh, Srinagar, the first and more intense system is expected to impact the region from January 22 to 24, while a second, moderate spell is likely during the night of January 26 till the forenoon of January 28, 2026. The peak activity of these systems is forecast on January 23 and January 27, respectively.

Under the influence of these Western Disturbances, widespread light to moderate rain and snowfall is expected, with heavy rainfall/snowfall at a few places, particularly over the Pir Panjal range. Areas likely to be affected include the Chenab Valley of Jammu Division and middle and higher reaches of South Kashmir, such as Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Gulmarg, Sonamarg–Zojila axis, Bandipora–Razdan Pass, Kupwara–Sadhna Pass, as well as Doda, Udhampur, Reasi, Kishtwar and Ramban districts.

The IMD has cautioned that the weather activity may lead to disruptions in surface and air transport, including possible closures of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway and other major roads in higher reaches. Travelers, tourists and transporters have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly.

People living in snow-bound areas have been asked to avoid venturing into avalanche-prone and slippery zones, while farmers have been advised to suspend irrigation, fertilizer application and chemical spray activities during the affected period. The advisory also warns of a possibility of landslides, mudslides and gusty winds ranging from 40–60 kmph at vulnerable locations.

The advisory has been submitted to the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir/Jammu, for necessary information and precautionary measures.