Fresh snow blankets Kashmir's high passes: Heavy falls likely on November 12–13 as cold wave tightens grip

Higher reaches across Jammu and Kashmir woke up under a fresh white cover on Thursday as light to moderate snowfall swept through key mountain passes and valleys, marking a sharp turn toward winter conditions across the region.

Reports indicated that Sadna Top, Ferkin Top, Karnah Valley, Peer Ki Gali, Sinthan Top and Zojila Pass all received fresh snowfall during the night. In the popular tourist destination of Gulmarg, both Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the Apharwat Hills were blanketed in snow.

Kongdori in Gulmarg recorded around 2 inches, with moderate snowfall continuing through the day. Razdan Top saw nearly 2 inches of accumulation, while Sadhna Top measured between 2 and 3 inches.

In the remote Machil Valley, snowfall was reported from multiple locations including Duddi, Machil, Pushwari, Chontiwari, Ring Payeen, Ring Bala, Katwara and Bisri Behek, turning the area into a white landscape.

Higher reaches of Tulail Valley and Gurez in Bandipora district also received fresh snow, transforming the already scenic valleys into a pristine winter setting.

The sudden snowfall has led to a noticeable dip in temperatures across the Kashmir Valley. The Meteorological Department has issued a forecast warning of more widespread weather activity in the coming days. According to the MeT, widespread rain and snow are expected across Jammu and Kashmir on November 12 and 13. Moderate to heavy snowfall is likely over the higher reaches of Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal districts.

Day temperatures are predicted to drop by 6–8°C during this period. Thunderstorms and hailstorms are also possible at a few places, adding to the challenging weather conditions.

Considering the forecast, the department has issued advisories for both travelers and farmers. People have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel to higher reaches, where road conditions can deteriorate quickly due to snow accumulation. Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect their crops and livestock from the expected cold and wet weather.

The fresh snowfall has once again highlighted the region’s vulnerability to sudden weather shifts in late autumn, as Kashmir transitions deeper into the winter season.

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