Srinagar, Dec 30 (KNS): As the New Year approaches, the Kashmir Valley is preparing for snowfall, with travelers flocking to popular hill stations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
A weak Western Disturbance is currently affecting the region, bringing light rain and snowfall to parts of north Kashmir, officials said on Tuesday.
The upper reaches, including Gulmarg, Sadhna Top, and Tulail Valley, received light to moderate snowfall, attracting tourists eager to experience the snow-covered landscape during New Year celebrations.
Authorities have reported heavy movement of vehicles toward these tourist hubs, with roads from Srinagar, Baramulla, and Anantnag seeing increased traffic.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast generally cloudy conditions across Jammu and Kashmir from December 30 to January 10.
Intermittent rain or snow is expected in several locations, with light to moderate snowfall likely over most areas during the night of December 31 to January 1. Higher and extreme upper reaches of north and central Kashmir may receive moderate to heavy snowfall.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
From January 2 onwards, the weather is expected to be partly to generally cloudy, with isolated light rain or snow in some areas.
Partly cloudy skies are predicted from January 3–5 and January 7–8, while January 6 may bring light snow over isolated higher reaches.
Minimum temperatures recorded on Tuesday reflected widespread cold conditions. Srinagar recorded 1.0°C, Pahalgam -1.2°C, Gulmarg -1.6°C, Kupwara 2.0°C, and Awantipora 1.0°C.
In Ladakh, Leh saw -8.4°C, Kargil -7.9°C, and Nubra Valley -4.2°C. Authorities have issued warnings for icy roads in high-altitude areas and reduced visibility due to fog.
Officials have urged travelers to carry adequate winter clothing and drive cautiously. Residents and tourists were advised to stay updated on local weather alerts while heading to hill stations for New Year festivities, as the valley prepares for celebrations under cold and wet conditions.(KNS).