Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026: IMD Issues Alert for Heavy Rainfall and Snowfall
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, has issued an important weather alert for Jammu & Kashmir and adjoining regions. According to the official advisory released by the Meteorological Centre Rambagh, Srinagar, two consecutive Western Disturbances are expected to impact the region during the last week of January 2026. This Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026 warns of widespread rainfall, snowfall, and possible disruptions to transport and daily life.
Overview of the Weather Systems
The IMD has identified two Western Disturbances arriving in quick succession:
🔹 First System (Intense Phase)
Period: 22nd to 24th January 2026
Peak Activity: 23rd January 2026
Intensity: Intense
Impact: Heavy rainfall and snowfall at several locations
🔹 Second System (Moderate Phase)
Period: Night of 26th January to Forenoon of 28th January 2026
Peak Activity: 27th January 2026
Intensity: Moderate
Impact: Moderate to heavy rainfall and snowfall
This Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026 clearly indicates that the combined impact of these two systems may lead to challenging weather conditions across both divisions.
Areas Likely to Be Affected
As per the IMD forecast, the following regions are likely to witness significant weather activity:
🏔️ Pir Panjal Range & Chenab Valley
Heavy rainfall/snowfall expected
Higher vulnerability to landslides and road blockages
🏞️ South Kashmir (Middle & Higher Reaches)
Anantnag
Pahalgam
Kulgam
Shopian
🛣️ Strategic Passes & Axes
Pir Ki Gali
Gulmarg
Sonamarg–Zojila Axis
Razdan Pass (Bandipora)
Sadhna Pass (Kupwara)
🏘️ Jammu Division Districts
Doda
Udhampur
Reasi
Kishtwar
Ramban
The Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026 emphasizes that these areas may experience snowfall strong enough to disrupt connectivity.
Overview of the Weather Systems
This Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026 clearly indicates that the combined impact of these two systems may lead to challenging weather conditions across both divisions.
Expected Weather Conditions
Under the influence of the two Western Disturbances, IMD forecasts:
🌧️ Widespread light to moderate rainfall
❄️ Moderate to heavy snowfall at higher altitudes
🌬️ Gusty winds reaching 40–60 km/h at vulnerable locations
The most intense weather activity is expected on 23rd January and 27th January 2026, making these days particularly critical for residents and travelers.
Probable Impacts on Daily Life
The IMD advisory outlines several possible consequences of the upcoming weather spell. According to the Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026, residents should remain alert for the following impacts:
🚧 1. Transport Disruptions
Temporary closure of Jammu–Srinagar National Highway
Disruptions to surface and air transport
Delays in public and private travel services
✈️ 2. Impact on Tourism
Tourists and transporters are advised to plan journeys carefully
Possible cancellations or rescheduling of flights and road travel
🧗 3. Avalanche & Slippery Slopes
Snow-bound areas may become avalanche-prone
Locals advised to avoid steep and slippery terrain
🌾 4. Agricultural Advisory
Farmers are advised to suspend irrigation
Avoid fertilizer and chemical spray activities during this period
🌪️ 5. Natural Hazards
Possibility of landslides and mudslides
Risk of damage due to strong winds in exposed areas
Areas Likely to Be Affected
Pir Panjal Range & Chenab Valley
Heavy rainfall/snowfall expected. Higher vulnerability to landslides and road blockages.
South Kashmir
Areas: Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Shopian
Middle & higher reaches likely to be affected.
Strategic Passes & Axes
Pir Ki Gali, Gulmarg, Sonamarg–Zojila Axis, Razdan Pass, Sadhna Pass.
Jammu Division Districts
Doda, Udhampur, Reasi, Kishtwar, Ramban likely to experience disruptions.
The Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026 emphasizes that these areas may experience snowfall strong enough to disrupt connectivity.
Advisory for Travelers and Tourists
The IMD has specifically cautioned travelers, tourists, and transport operators. In view of the inclement weather highlighted in the Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026, people are advised to:
Check road and weather updates before travel
Avoid night journeys through mountainous routes
Carry essential supplies and emergency contacts
Follow advisories issued by local authorities
Tourists planning visits to Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, or other hill destinations should exercise extra caution.
Safety Guidelines & Advisories
🧳 Advisory for Travelers & Tourists
- Check road and weather updates before travel
- Avoid night journeys through mountainous routes
- Carry essential supplies and emergency contacts
- Follow advisories issued by local authorities
Note: Tourists planning visits to Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, or other hill destinations should exercise extra caution.
🏠 Safety Guidelines for Residents
- Stay indoors during heavy snowfall or strong winds
- Avoid unnecessary travel during peak activity days
- Secure rooftops, water tanks, and loose objects
- Keep emergency kits ready (torch, medicines, dry food)
The Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026 stresses public cooperation to minimize risks during this period.
🏛️ Role of Authorities and Administration
Local administration, disaster management teams, and road maintenance authorities are expected to remain on high alert. Snow clearance machinery and emergency response units may be deployed along critical highways and mountain passes.
The IMD has submitted this advisory for kind information and necessary action, ensuring preparedness at all administrative levels.
Role of Authorities and Administration
Local administration, disaster management teams, and road maintenance authorities are expected to remain on high alert. Snow clearance machinery and emergency response units may be deployed along critical highways and mountain passes.
The IMD has submitted this advisory for kind information and necessary action, ensuring preparedness at all administrative levels.
Importance of Weather Advisories
Weather advisories play a crucial role in minimizing loss of life and property, especially in mountainous regions like Jammu & Kashmir. Western Disturbances are common during winter, but consecutive systems can significantly intensify their impact.
By following the Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026, authorities and citizens can collectively reduce risks and ensure safety.
Conclusion
The latest IMD alert clearly indicates that Jammu & Kashmir is likely to experience a challenging weather spell between 22nd and 28th January 2026. With heavy rainfall, snowfall, strong winds, and potential transport disruptions, preparedness and caution are essential.
Residents, travelers, farmers, and tourists are strongly advised to stay updated with official bulletins and strictly follow safety instructions. Timely awareness and responsible action can help mitigate the adverse effects of this weather event highlighted in the Jammu Kashmir Weather Advisory January 2026.
FAQs – Jammu & Kashmir Weather Alert
When will the heavy snowfall occur?
Heavy snowfall is most likely on 23rd January and 27th January 2026.
Which highways may be affected?
The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway and other mountain roads may face temporary closures.
Is air travel likely to be affected?
Yes, bad weather may cause delays or cancellations of flights.
What should farmers do during this period?
Farmers should suspend irrigation and chemical spray activities.
Are tourists advised to cancel travel plans?
Tourists are advised to plan carefully and avoid travel during peak weather activity days.
