As of January 27, 2026, several hill stations are currently experiencing snowfall across North India due to a strong western disturbance. States like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are seeing fresh snow, affecting daily life and travel.
From popular tourist destinations to remote mountain regions, snowfall has intensified, leading to road closures, flight cancellations, and cold wave conditions. Weather agencies have issued alerts, advising residents and travelers to stay cautious as heavy snowfall continues today and tomorrow.
Hill Stations Currently Experiencing Snowfall in India
| Around 50 cm of fresh snowfall | Hill Stations Experiencing Snowfall | Current Snowfall Status | Major Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jammu and Kashmir | Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg | Heavy snowfall ongoing | Flights canceled, highways closed |
| Jammu and Kashmir | Kupwara, Pulwama, Kulgam, Bandipora | Moderate to heavy snowfall | Power disruptions, rural roads blocked |
| Jammu and Kashmir | Kishtwar and higher reaches | Continuous snowfall | Travel restrictions imposed |
| Himachal Pradesh | Shimla | Around 50 cm fresh snowfall | Roads closed, schools shut |
| Himachal Pradesh | Manali | Heavy fresh snowfall | Traffic halted, tourist advisory issued |
| Himachal Pradesh | Kufri, Dalhousie | Light to moderate snowfall | Slippery roads, cold wave |
| Himachal Pradesh | Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur | Heavy snowfall, extreme cold | Temperatures below -10°C |
| Himachal Pradesh | Chamba, Mandi, Solan | Light snowfall intensifying | Transport delays |
| Uttarakhand | Auli | First heavy snowfall of 2026 | Skiing conditions improved |
| Uttarakhand | Mussoorie, Nainital | Snow expected till Jan 28 | Tourist movement affected |
| Uttarakhand | Ranikhet, Chamoli districts | Light snow with heavier spells expected | Cold wave alert |
| North India Overall | High-altitude regions | Snowfall due to western disturbance | Road closures and flight disruptions |
Introduction to the Current Snowfall Situation in India
As of now, there are several hill stations in North India that are currently experiencing active snowfall. A strong western disturbance has triggered widespread snow across higher altitudes, affecting travel, daily life, and tourism activities.
Why Heavy Snowfall Is Occurring Right Now
The ongoing snowfall is due to an intense western disturbance moving across northern India. This weather system brings moisture-laden winds from the Mediterranean region, resulting in heavy snow over mountainous areas and rainfall in nearby plains.
IMD Weather Warning and Forecast Update
The India Meteorological Department has issued alerts for heavy snowfall today and tomorrow. Cold wave conditions, poor visibility, and transport disruptions are expected, especially in high-altitude regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Jammu and Kashmir Under Heavy Snowfall Alert
Hill stations in Jammu and Kashmir are witnessing continuous snowfall, significantly impacting road, rail, and air connectivity. Several regions have recorded fresh snow accumulation, while authorities remain on high alert due to weather-related emergencies.
Srinagar Experiencing Snow and Flight Disruptions
Srinagar is currently covered in fresh snow, leading to the cancellation of nearly 20 flights at the local airport. Poor runway visibility and icy conditions have disrupted air travel across the Kashmir Valley.
Snowfall in Gulmarg and Pahalgam
Popular tourist destinations Gulmarg and Pahalgam are witnessing heavy snowfall, transforming landscapes into winter wonderlands. However, tourists are advised to remain cautious due to slippery roads and limited mobility caused by continuous snow.
Higher Reaches Like Sonamarg See Intense Snow
Sonamarg and the surrounding higher-altitude areas are experiencing intense snowfall. Accumulated snow has reduced road access, prompting local authorities to restrict movement and deploy snow-clearing machinery where possible.
Impact on Kupwara, Pulwama, and Kulgam Regions
Districts such as Kupwara, Pulwama, and Kulgam are also under heavy snowfall. Rural connectivity has been affected, and residents are advised to stay indoors while emergency teams monitor power and communication lines.
National Highway Closures in Jammu and Kashmir
The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway near the Navyug Tunnel remains closed due to snow accumulation and landslide risks. Travel advisories have been issued, urging commuters to postpone non-essential journeys until conditions improve.
Himachal Pradesh Witnessing Record-Breaking Snowfall
Himachal Pradesh is currently experiencing widespread snowfall across multiple districts. The state has seen one of its heaviest snow spells in recent years, significantly impacting transport, education, and tourism activities.
Shimla Records Historic Snowfall
Shimla has recorded nearly 50 centimeters of snowfall within 24 hours, marking its heaviest snow in three decades. Roads remain blocked, schools are closed, and residents are coping with freezing temperatures.
Also Read: 7 Best Snowfall Destinations to Visit in January in India
Heavy Snowfall Continues in Manali
Manali is experiencing heavy fresh snowfall, delighting tourists but creating travel challenges. Snow-covered roads and frequent traffic stoppages have prompted local authorities to issue safety advisories for visitors and residents alike.
Snow Conditions in Kufri and Dalhousie
Kufri and Dalhousie are witnessing light-to-moderate snowfall that is expected to intensify. These popular hill stations are seeing increased tourist footfall, but weather officials urge caution due to changing conditions.
Extreme Cold in Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur
Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur districts are facing severe cold with heavy snowfall. Kukumseri recorded temperatures as low as minus 10.2 degrees Celsius, making it one of the coldest places in the region currently.
Road Closures Across Himachal Pradesh
More than 1,250 roads are closed across Himachal Pradesh due to snow accumulation. Remote villages are temporarily cut off, and restoration work is underway as weather conditions permit safe operations.
Snowfall Update from Chamba, Mandi, and Solan
Chamba, Mandi, and Solan districts are experiencing light-to-moderate snowfall today. Authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain prepared for further weather-related disruptions.
Uttarakhand Enters Active Snowfall Phase
Uttarakhand has also entered an active snowfall phase, especially in higher-altitude regions. The state is witnessing fresh snow due to the same western disturbance affecting North India.
Auli Receives First Heavy Snow of 2026
Auli has reported its first heavy snowfall of 2026, enhancing skiing conditions. While the snowfall boosts winter tourism, safety protocols have been strengthened to manage weather-related risks.
Snow Expected in Mussoorie and Nainital
Mussoorie and Nainital are likely to receive fresh snowfall through January 28. Cloud cover and dropping temperatures indicate increasing chances of snow in these popular hill stations.
Ranikhet and Chamoli District Weather Update
Ranikhet and parts of Chamoli district are under a snowfall watch. Light snow has already been reported in higher areas, with heavier spells expected as the western disturbance intensifies.
Effect of Snowfall on Daily Life and Tourism
While snowfall enhances scenic beauty, it also disrupts daily life. Power outages, blocked roads, and flight cancellations are common during such spells, affecting residents, tourists, and local businesses.
Safety Advisory for Travelers and Tourists
Travelers are advised to check weather updates before planning trips to hill stations. Carry warm clothing, avoid night travel, and follow local administration guidelines to ensure safety during snowfall conditions.
What to Expect Over the Next 48 Hours
Weather models suggest that snowfall will continue today and tomorrow across affected regions. Gradual improvement is expected afterward, though cold wave conditions may persist even after snowfall subsides.
Final Summary
In summary, hill stations across Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are currently experiencing snowfall right now. Residents and travelers should remain alert, informed, and prepared as winter conditions continue to dominate North India.