Winters arrived early in Kashmir as the Razdan Pass in Gurez Valley received fresh snowfall on Wednesday. The Meteorological Centre has predicted light rain and snowfall over the higher reaches of Kashmir. However, traffic on the Bandipora-Gurez road remained accessible for vehicles.
The weather forecast indicates a possibility of very light rain or snow in the northern and central regions of the valley from late night on October 23 to the early hours of October 24. The plains of the valley are expected to remain mostly dry, with only slight chances of drizzle.
A weak Western Disturbance is likely on October 28, which may bring light rain or snow to the higher regions of north and central Kashmir, including areas like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and the Zojila Pass.
Day and night temperatures in the valley are currently above normal but are expected to gradually fall as winter approaches. The Meteorological Department has advised farmers to continue harvesting and safely store their crops during this period.
This is the second snowfall this month as light snowfall occurred in the higher areas of Kashmir including the popular tourist destination of Gulmarg on October 6.
Kashmir usually witnesses snowfall from December to March. The most severe part of the winter in Kashmir consists of three months. It is divided into three parts called the Chilas--the Chillai Kalan, the Chillai Khurd, and the Challai Bache. Chillai-Kalan, is the 40-day period of harsh winter. It begins on December 21 and ends on January 31. It is followed by a 20-day long Chillai-Khurd (small cold) that occurs between January 31 and February 19 and a 10-day long Chillai-Bachha (baby cold) which is from February 20 to March 2.
The weather in Kashmir Valley continues to remain dry and cold with minimum temperatures hovering below the freezing point during Chillai-Kalan and the chances of snowfall are maximum during this time. Snow during this period freezes and lasts longer.