Kashmir back to winter chill as rain lashes plains, fresh snowfall in upper reaches
Srinagar, March 18, Intermittent rain in Srinagar and other parts of the Kashmir Valley, coupled with fresh snowfall in the upper reaches, has brought back a pronounced winter chill across the region on Wednesday.
The weather shift comes after a relatively dry spell, with cloudy skies and scattered precipitation lowering day temperatures and reviving cold conditions typically seen earlier in the season.
The renewed spell of rain in the plains and snowfall in higher altitudes has affected normal life in parts of the Valley, with damp and chilly conditions throughout the day. The Meteorological Department had forecast generally cloudy weather with light rain in plains and snowfall over higher reaches around March 17–18.
Officials said upper areas including Gulmarg, Sonamarg and other mountainous belts received fresh snowfall, while Srinagar and adjoining districts experienced intermittent drizzle and light rain at intervals.
“The current weather pattern is due to a western disturbance affecting the region, leading to widespread cloud cover and precipitation,” an official from the Meteorological Centre Srinagar said.
He said the prevailing conditions are likely to continue, with intermittent rain or snowfall expected at several places over the next couple of days, especially during late evening and night hours.
The sudden return of cold conditions has led to a noticeable dip in temperatures, with maximum temperatures remaining below normal for this time of the month, officials said.
Locals said the weather had turned “unexpectedly cold” after a brief improvement earlier this week.
“It had started feeling like spring, but now it feels like peak winter again,” said a Srinagar resident, adding that people have had to take out warm clothing once more.
The fresh precipitation has, however, brought some relief to farmers and orchardists who were concerned about the prolonged dry spell earlier this season. Such wet spells are crucial for soil moisture and upcoming agricultural activity.
According to weather data, March in Kashmir typically marks a transition period with mixed conditions, including rain in plains and occasional snowfall in higher reaches, though snowfall usually decreases compared to peak winter months.
Authorities have advised caution in higher reaches and on mountain roads, where snowfall could lead to slippery conditions and temporary disruptions.
The Meteorological Department said weather is expected to remain generally unstable until around March 20, after which gradual improvement is likely.
