Snowfall in upper reaches, plains in Kashmir recieve rains

October 6, 2025 by News Desk

The higher reaches of Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Gurez, and several other mountainous areas, witnessed the season’s first snowfall this week, marking an early onset of winter in the Valley.

Fresh snow blanketed high-altitude regions such as Affarwat in Gulmarg, Sinthan Top in Anantnag, Zojila Pass, Gumri, Minimarg, and Razdan Top, the gateway to Gurez Valley in Bandipora district.

Light snowfall began early Monday morning at Razdan Top, leading to a sharp dip in temperatures across the upper regions. Despite the snowfall, officials confirmed that the Bandipora–Gurez road remained open to traffic.

Meanwhile, continuous rainfall was reported across the plains on Monday, bringing temperatures down to below 10°C in several areas, including Srinagar. The persistent downpour added to the wintry feel in the Valley, as residents turned to warm clothing much earlier than usual.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather warning for Jammu Kashmir, forecasting heavy rainfall, snowfall, and thunderstorms across the region from October 5 to 7, 2025. The spell, driven by a strong Western Disturbance, is expected to cause significant disruptions, including potential landslides, road closures, and waterlogging in low-lying areas.

According to the IMD, moderate to heavy rainfall is likely in the plains of Kashmir, with light snow in mid-altitude areas and heavy snowfall over higher reaches such as Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Shopian, and passes like Zojila and Sinthan. In the Jammu division, thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 60–70 km/h are expected, with isolated areas likely to receive very heavy rain.

Major highways, including the Jammu–Srinagar and Srinagar–Leh routes, may face closures due to landslides and shooting stones.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has directed all administrative departments to remain on high alert, prioritizing public safety and the protection of critical infrastructure, fruit crops, and essential services. Divisional Commissioners have deployed teams from police, public works, health, and power development departments to monitor river levels, road conditions, and real-time weather updates.

The sudden change in weather has brought delight to residents and tourists alike, many of whom see it as the first glimpse of the approaching winter. However, authorities have urged commuters and travelers to remain cautious, especially in higher regions, where temperatures continue to drop and roads have turned slippery.