Srinagar, Dec 27 : The Meteorological Department has forecast largely dry weather across Jammu and Kashmir till December 29, while predicting rain and snowfall around the New Year, bringing a change in weather conditions across the region.
According to the MeT Department, weather conditions are expected to remain mostly dry from December 27 to 29 in both Jammu and Kashmir. However, on December 30, there is a possibility of light rain or snowfall at isolated to scattered locations, particularly in higher altitude areas.
The department has indicated that a more active weather system is likely to affect the region from December 31 to January 1. During this period, light rain or snowfall is expected at many places, while moderate snowfall may occur over higher reaches of north and central Kashmir, including mountainous areas.
On January 2, light rain or snowfall may occur at a few locations, after which the weather is expected to stabilise again. From January 3 to January 9, the MeT Department has forecast generally dry weather across Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, cold conditions continued to prevail, especially during the night. In the Kashmir Valley, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of –2.6°C, while Qazigund registered –2.8°C and Kupwara –3.8°C. Tourist destinations witnessed sharper drops, with Pahalgam at –4.8°C and Gulmarg at –4.2°C. Kokernag recorded a minimum of –0.9°C.
In the Jammu region, the winter capital Jammu recorded a minimum temperature of 7.1°C, while Katra stood at 7.6°C. Batote recorded 4.6°C, Kathua 6.2°C, Banihal 2.8°C and Bhaderwah 0.2°C.
In Ladakh, extreme cold persisted with Leh recording –9.9°C and Kargil –9.2°C.
The MeT Department has advised residents and travellers to stay updated on weather advisories, particularly in view of expected snowfall around the New Year.
