The weather across the mountain regions of Jammu and Kashmir has taken a dramatic turn, bringing a heavy spell of snowfall and widespread rain to the valley. Major high-altitude routes including the Srinagar-Leh highway, Peer Ki Gali on the Mughal Road, and the Sinthan pass leading towards Kishtwar have become completely blanketed in thick snow. Additionally, the Razdan pass heading towards Gurez and Sadhna Top towards Tangdar and Karnah are completely covered, making vehicular movement across these mountain passages extremely difficult. This sudden weather shift over the past twenty-four hours has transformed the local scenery into a picturesque winter landscape that promises to attract visitors from far and wide.
Recorded Snowfall Depths Across Mountain Passes
According to meteorological observations over the past day, Sadhna Top and Razdan Top have both accumulated more than a foot of fresh snow. Meanwhile, Sinthan Top recorded eight to ten inches of snowfall, while Z-Gali and Margan Top received approximately six to eight inches. Peer Ki Gali saw five to eight inches, Zojila Pass accumulated five to six inches, and the Baltal and Pahalgam regions recorded four to six inches. The Gurez valley received three to five inches, Sonamarg saw two to three inches, and the popular resort destination of Gulmargh recorded just one centimeter of snow accumulation. These varying depths have collectively coated the region in a stunning white layer.
Rainfall Activity and Sharp Temperature Drop
Along with the heavy snow in the highlands, the valley has experienced continuous rainfall over the past twenty-four hours. Meteorological authorities have forecasted inclement weather conditions to persist until this afternoon, accompanied by a steep drop in temperatures ranging between six and eight degrees Celsius. This combination of rain and snow is expected to significantly improve water levels and flow rates in local springs, wells, lakes, and other natural water sources across the region. The sudden weather system has brought a sharp chill to the atmosphere while benefiting the local hydrology.
Advisory for Residents and Snow Clearance Operations
Authorities have issued specific advisories urging farmers to move their harvested crops to safe locations immediately to prevent weather damage. Due to the moderate to heavy snowfall in higher altitudes, traffic movement across mountain passes and connecting roads has been severely restricted. Commuters, transport operators, and tourists are strongly advised to follow the travel advisories issued by the state traffic department. Following fresh snowfall on the Zojila Pass, traffic along the Srinagar-Leh national highway has been suspended from both directions. To restore connectivity, the Border Roads Organisation has deployed its 122 Road Construction Company to clear snow from the Zojila route, while intensive snow-clearing operations are also underway along the blocked sections of the Mughal Road near Peer Ki Gali.
