New Delhi: Kashmir spent a difficult night in darkness as strong gusty winds late Thursday severely disrupted the power supply across the Valley. The officials
said that more than 80 per cent of areas were affected after high-speed winds damaged the transmission lines, forcing authorities to shut down several feeders as a safety measure.
According to the power department, a majority of the 33 KV and 11 KV feeders developed faults during the windstorm. As a result, the region is currently receiving only around 300 megawatts of electricity against a demand of nearly 1,900 megawatts. The officials even stated that the restoration work will begin shortly. “We will receive faults on many lines and in several areas; feeders were tripped to prevent further damage,” an official said.
Fresh snowfall start in jammu srinagar National Highway near Nachnala pic.twitter.com/BEyJlF3EWz
— Malik Nisar (@maliknisar123) January 23, 2026
Western disturbances to worsen weather
The power disruption comes as Jammu and Kashmir braces for a fresh spell of rain and snowfall from January 22, triggered by two approaching western disturbances. The weather officials have forecast widespread precipitation across the Union Territory, affecting both plains and higher reaches with the most intense activity expected on January 23.
The higher altitude areas such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Anantnag, Kulgam and Shopian are likely to receive light to heavy snowfall while the lower areas may see spells of moderate rain. Officials have even warned that snowfall accumulation, particularly overnight, could disrupt road connectivity and daily movement.
Temperatures to drop further
The cold conditions will continue to prevail across the Valley with night temperatures already below freezing in many higher areas. The incoming weather systems are expected to bring a further drop in temperatures, increasing the risk of frost and icy conditions on roads. The gusty winds forecast will even touch speeds of 40 to 60 kmph and may even worsen the chills.
The authorities have even advised that key routes including the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway may face temporary closures due to snowfall, landslides or mudslides. The residents and travellers have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay alert and follow official weather updates as the situation develops over the next few days.
