J&K Weather Forecast (30 September 2025 – 10 October 2025): Season’s First Snowfall Expected in Higher Reaches, Farmers Advised to Speed Up Harvesting

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued an important weather advisory for Jammu and Kashmir covering the period from 30th September to 10th October 2025, highlighting significant weather changes expected during the first week of October. While the initial days will remain largely dry, the region is likely to witness a shift towards colder and wetter conditions, particularly between 5th and 7th October, when the first snowfall of the season is expected to occur over higher reaches.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the upcoming weather pattern, along with official advisories for farmers, travelers, and general public.

Weather Forecast Overview

30 September 2025 – Generally Dry Weather

The current weather conditions remain mostly dry and pleasant across both Jammu and Kashmir divisions. No major weather activity is expected, making it a suitable day for outdoor activities, farming operations, and travel.

1st to 4th October 2025 – Dry Weather with Possibility of Evening Showers

From 1st to 4th October, the region is expected to continue witnessing generally dry weather conditions during the daytime. However, the MET department has indicated a slight chance of light rain, thunder, or gusty winds towards late evening or night, particularly in isolated pockets of Kashmir Valley, Pir Panjal regions, and parts of Jammu hills.

This period is considered crucial for agricultural activities, especially paddy harvesting, which is at its peak in Kashmir during late September and early October.

5th to 7th October – Major Weather Activity Expected

This is the most significant period in the forecast:

• Weather Condition: Generally cloudy with intermittent spells of light to moderate rain, thunderstorm, and gusty winds across many parts of Jammu & Kashmir.
• Snowfall Alert: Light to moderate snowfall is expected over higher reaches of North, Central, and South Kashmir, Chenab Valley, and on important mountain passes including Gulmarg, Sonamarg-Zojila, Peer Ki Gali, Sinthan Top, Razdan Pass, and parts of Gurez and Kupwara heights.

This snowfall event will likely be the first major winter signal for the region, marking the onset of colder conditions, especially in hilly and mountainous zones.

8th to 10th October – Improvement in Weather

After the wet spell, the weather is expected to return to generally dry conditions, providing relief to both locals and tourists.

However, day-time temperatures are likely to remain on the lower side, particularly in Kashmir and upper reaches of Jammu division.

Temperature Outlook

• Significant fall in day temperatures is expected during 5th and 6th October, especially across Kashmir Valley and high-altitude areas.
• Maximum temperatures in Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Kupwara, and Shopian may drop by 4-6°C, while minimum temperatures may approach single digits in several places.

Official Advisory Issued by MET Centre Srinagar

The weather department has issued specific guidelines for farmers, tourists, trekkers, and transporters:

✅ For Farmers

• Continue harvesting of paddy and horticultural crops till 4th October (afternoon).
• Ensure safe storage of harvested produce to prevent moisture damage during rain.
• Farmers involved in apple harvesting and transportation are advised to complete major shipments before 4th October to avoid disruptions.

⚠ For Travelers and Transporters

• Tourists, trekkers, and drivers using mountain routes must plan accordingly.
• Chances of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones are high on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, Mughal Road, Zojila Pass, and other hilly routes.
• Vehicle owners are advised to carry anti-skid chains if traveling towards snow-prone regions.

⚡ For the General Public

• Be prepared for gusty winds and thunderstorms between 5th and 7th October.
• Light rain-induced disruptions may affect electricity lines and mobile connectivity in certain rural areas.

Tourism Impact – Ideal Time for Snow Lovers

While the upcoming weather spell may cause inconvenience to daily commuters, it is good news for snow enthusiasts and winter tourism operators.

Destinations like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, and Doodhpathri are likely to receive fresh snow, giving photographers and adventure tourists a chance to witness the season’s first snowfall.

However, authorities urge caution and recommend traveling only in groups with proper gear and support vehicles.

Expert Commentary

Speaking on the development, a senior official from MET Srinagar said:

“This is a typical early winter pattern developing over Jammu & Kashmir. While low-lying areas will mostly receive rains, higher reaches may get moderate snowfall. We strongly advise farmers to expedite harvesting and people living in hilly areas to take necessary precautions.”

What Should Residents Do? – Preparedness Tips

Conclusion

The upcoming week in Jammu & Kashmir marks a transition from late autumn to early winter, with the first major weather activity set to strike between 5th and 7th October. While the dry spell in the first few days offers a critical window for agricultural completion, residents must stay alert for changing conditions in the latter part of the forecast.

The MET Centre Srinagar’s advisory is clear and timely, urging farmers, travelers, and general citizens to exercise caution and plan accordingly.

As always, stay tuned to official weather bulletins for real-time updates, and follow local administration guidelines for safe movement during adverse weather.

For continuous weather alerts, follow updates from MET Centre Srinagar and local news networks.