Cold Wave Intensifies in Kashmir as Temperatures Plummet

Kashmir is currently under the grip of a severe cold wave, with temperatures plummeting significantly. The meteorological department predicts rain and snowfall in the upper regions over the next few days. Notably, areas like Shopiyan and Gulmarg are experiencing some of the lowest temperatures recorded this season. As the region undergoes 'Chilla-e-Kalan,' the likelihood of snowfall increases, with forecasts indicating intermittent precipitation in the coming days. This article provides a detailed overview of the current weather conditions and upcoming forecasts for Kashmir.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 17, 2026, 17:06 IST

Severe Cold Conditions in Kashmir

The cold wave in Kashmir has intensified due to a drop in minimum temperatures. The meteorological department has forecasted rain or snowfall in the upper regions of the valley over the next few days.

On Friday night, the minimum temperature in Srinagar was recorded at 3.2 degrees Celsius below zero, a decrease from the previous night's reading of 1.5 degrees Celsius below zero.

Shopiyan in South Kashmir has been the coldest area, with temperatures falling to 5.6 degrees Celsius below zero. Meanwhile, Pahalgam recorded a minimum temperature of 2.6 degrees Celsius below zero, consistent with the previous night.

In Gulmarg, located in the Baramulla district of North Kashmir, the temperature was noted at 4.2 degrees Celsius below zero, which is lower than the previous night’s temperature of 2.3 degrees Celsius below zero.

According to meteorological officials, Sonamarg in the Ganderbal district of Central Kashmir recorded a minimum temperature of 2.9 degrees Celsius below zero, accompanied by moderate snowfall on Friday.

The mercury in Qazigund, the gateway to the valley, dropped to 3.4 degrees Celsius below zero. Kokernag recorded a minimum temperature of 2 degrees Celsius below zero, while Kupwara saw temperatures at 2.2 degrees Celsius below zero.

Currently, Kashmir is experiencing 'Chilla-e-Kalan,' a 40-day period of extreme cold, which began on December 21 and will conclude on January 30. This phase is characterized by the highest likelihood of snowfall and often sees nighttime temperatures dip below freezing.

The meteorological department has indicated that successive western disturbances will impact Kashmir, leading to intermittent rain and snowfall in the coming days.

Light snowfall is expected in select high-altitude areas on Saturday and Sunday (January 17 and 18), with light to moderate rain or snowfall anticipated on January 19 and 20.

On January 21, light snowfall may occur in some isolated high-altitude regions, followed by light to moderate rain or snowfall until January 25. Heavy rain or snowfall is also expected in the Chenab Valley, Pir Panjal range, and some districts of South Kashmir between January 23 and 24.