Kashmir experienced fresh snowfall on Sunday, bringing a winter wonderland to the region, while dense fog earlier in the day disrupted air traffic, leading to the cancellation of all flights at Srinagar International Airport. The Meteorological Department (MeT) has predicted scattered snowfall until Monday afternoon.
Snowfall was reported across higher reaches and prominent locations, including Gulmarg, Kokernag, Pahalgam, Srinagar, Kupwara, Baramulla, Sonamarg, and other areas. Gulmarg recorded 21 cm of snow, while Kokernag saw 0.3 cm and Pahalgam received 1.4 cm. Kupwara witnessed 9.1 mm of rain and snow, with Srinagar also experiencing light snowfall and rain.
Authorities launched snow clearance operations along major routes, but roads to Machil, Tangdhar, Keran, and Gurez remain closed due to heavy snow accumulation.
The region continues to endure a severe cold wave, with Kokernag emerging as the coldest location at minus 8.1 degrees Celsius. Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 2.5 degrees Celsius, while Gulmarg registered minus 4 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam saw a low of minus 3.2 degrees Celsius, Qazigund dipped to minus 3.6 degrees Celsius, Konibal in Pampore logged minus 3.5 degrees Celsius, and Kupwara recorded minus 2.8 degrees Celsius.
Kashmir remains under the grip of Chillai Kalan, the harshest 40-day phase of winter, which began on December 21. This period, known for its freezing temperatures and frequent snowfall, will continue until January 29, followed by Chillai Khurd (20 days of moderate cold) and Chillai Bachha (10 days of mild cold).
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the region, predicting widespread snowfall, with heavy snow expected at isolated locations. A moderate to strong Western Disturbance has brought light to moderate snowfall across most areas, with peak activity anticipated between Saturday night and Monday morning, especially in middle and higher elevations of Kashmir and the Chenab Valley.
Authorities have advised residents to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.
The dense fog caused significant disruptions at Srinagar International Airport, where all flights were canceled on Sunday due to poor visibility.
Airport authorities reported that more than 50 flights were scheduled for the day.
