Srinagar, October 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The first snowfall of the season has covered several higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Zojila Pass, Razdan Pass and Sinthan Top, as the Meteorological Department warned of another 24 hours of unsettled weather before conditions are expected to improve.
Fresh snow transformed Gulmarg, the popular ski resort, into a winter landscape on Tuesday, drawing excited reactions from tourists. Visitors were seen tossing snowballs and dancing amid the fresh white cover, with some young travellers experiencing snowfall for the first time.
The weather department has forecast further rain and snowfall in the higher reaches, along with the possibility of thunderstorms and gusty winds, until October 15. Conditions are expected to improve from the afternoon of October 15, followed by generally dry weather across the Union Territory for around 10 days.
The spell of rain in the plains and snowfall in the mountains has also brought a noticeable drop in temperatures. Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 20 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, while Pahalgam and Gulmarg registered 14.2 degrees and 11.8 degrees Celsius, respectively.
Authorities have advised tourists and other travellers to exercise caution, while trekkers have been urged to avoid mountain routes until weather conditions improve. Farmers and apple growers have also been advised to store harvested grain and apples safely in view of the possibility of further adverse weather.
The change in weather has coincided with the completion of the paddy harvest across the Kashmir Valley. Nearly 90 per cent of the apple crop has also been picked, allowing farmers to turn their attention to preparations for sowing Rabi crops, including oilseeds.
The rainfall is expected to benefit agricultural activity and replenish water sources ahead of winter. Fresh precipitation and snowmelt are likely to support water availability in springs, streams, lakes and wells during the coming months.
As temperatures fall, residents have begun bringing out their winter clothing, including the traditional Kashmiri phiran, a warm outer garment widely worn during the cold season.
The latest snowfall marks the beginning of the winter weather cycle in the region, while the forecast of improving conditions from October 15 is expected to offer some relief after the current spell of rain and snow.
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