Delayed Winter Returns to Kashmir, Temperatures Plunge; Eid Markets Face Weather Woes | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: In a sharp and unexpected reversal, winter-like conditions have returned across Jammu and Kashmir, with widespread rain in the plains and fresh snowfall in higher reaches, dragging temperatures well below normal and disrupting daily life ahead of Eid.

After an unusually warm February, the region is now witnessing what meteorologists describe as a delayed winter phase, driven by successive western disturbances. The sudden shift has forced residents to pull out woollens again, even as the Valley was transitioning into spring.

According to data compiled by Kashmir Weather, maximum temperatures across the Kashmir region remained significantly below normal. Srinagar recorded a maximum of 8.4°C, which is 7.6°C below normal, while Gulmarg registered just 1.0°C. Other stations, including Qazigund (9.2°C), Kupwara (9.2°C), and Pahalgam (7.6°C), also recorded temperatures several degrees below seasonal averages.

In the Jammu region, temperatures too dipped sharply, with Jammu city recording 20.2°C, around 7.3°C below normal. Banihal and Bhaderwah saw even steeper departures, reflecting the widespread impact of the cold wave.

The Meteorological Department said the erratic weather is expected to persist until March 20, with peak activity likely on March 19. The ongoing spell has brought light to moderate rain in plains and intermittent snowfall in tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, as well as in high-altitude passes including Peer Ki Gali, Sinthan Top, Razdan Pass, and Zojila.

Snow accumulation ranging between 6 and 18 inches has been reported in several upper reaches, particularly at Sadhna Top, Razdan Top, and Zojila, raising concerns over road safety and connectivity.

Authorities have issued advisories warning of slippery road conditions and potential avalanches in higher reaches. The Bandipora–Gurez road has been closed following fresh snowfall at Razdan Pass, while travellers have been urged to check the status of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway before undertaking journeys.

In one major rescue operation, nearly 400 tourists and locals stranded at Sinthan Pass were safely evacuated after heavy snowfall rendered the route hazardous.

The Meteorological Department has also warned of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of up to 50 km/h through March 20, along with the possibility of isolated hailstorms. Farmers have been advised to suspend agricultural operations temporarily due to unstable conditions.

The sudden cold spell, attributed to climate variability, has not only disrupted normal life but also raised concerns for the festive economy. With Eid expected around March 20 or 21, traders fear that continued rainfall and cold conditions could dampen last-minute shopping activity in Ramzan markets, traditionally marked by a surge in consumer footfall.

While weather conditions are expected to improve from March 20 afternoon, with largely dry weather forecast between March 21 and 24, officials have indicated another spell of rain and snowfall may affect the region between March 26 and 28.

For now, Kashmir finds itself briefly pulled back into winter, just as it was preparing to welcome spring.