Srinagar is currently experiencing heavy snowfall in higher reaches and moderate rain in the plains, impacting transportation and daily life.
On March 16, 2026, the weather in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, took a significant turn as the higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley received fresh heavy snowfall, while the plains were lashed by moderate rain during the night and into the morning.
Sadhna Top recorded over 12 inches of fresh snow, and Sinthan Top received about six inches, creating challenging conditions for residents and travelers alike. The snowfall has led to the suspension of vehicular movement on the Srinagar-Leh highway due to safety concerns.
In addition to these developments, the ski resort of Gulmarg welcomed fresh snowfall on Monday morning, enhancing its appeal for winter sports enthusiasts. However, the heavy snowfall at Pir Ki Gali has resulted in the closure of the Mughal Road, which connects the Valley with Rajouri-Poonch.
The minimum temperature in Srinagar city was recorded at 5.3 degrees Celsius on the same day, indicating a cold spell across the region. The Meteorological Department has forecasted that similar weather conditions, including rain and snow, are expected to persist in Jammu and Kashmir until March 20.
In a notable rescue operation, the Army successfully evacuated 214 people stranded in J&K’s Sinthan Pass due to the heavy snowfall. This highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the weather in the region.
Furthermore, Sonamarg experienced 3 to 4 inches of fresh snowfall, and Zojila Pass recorded about 5 inches, contributing to the overall impact on travel and accessibility in the area.
As the situation unfolds, the MET department has indicated a shift in weather patterns, predicting dry weather from March 21 to 23, which may provide some relief to the affected areas.
The fresh snowfall has already led to the closure of several inter-district roads and remote stretches due to slippery conditions and accumulation, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in such weather scenarios.
As residents and authorities navigate these challenging conditions, the focus remains on ensuring safety and restoring normalcy in the region.
