The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Srinagar has issued a significant weather advisory for Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), forecasting widespread light to moderate rain and snowfall across the Union Territory from January 22 to January 28, 2026. This comes as a crucial update for the region, which has experienced a notably dry and snowless 'Chilai Kalan' (the harshest winter period) in the preceding weeks of January. The advisory details the impact of two successive Western Disturbances. The first, expected to be intense, will affect J&K and adjoining areas from January 22 to 24, with its peak activity anticipated on January 23. The second Western Disturbance, of moderate intensity, is predicted to influence the region from the night of January 26 to the forenoon of January 28, with January 27 marked as its peak. Under the influence of these weather systems, widespread precipitation is expected, including heavy rainfall and snowfall in isolated areas. Regions particularly vulnerable to heavy precipitation include the Pir Panjal range, the Chenab Valley in the Jammu division, and the middle to higher reaches of South Kashmir, encompassing areas like Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Shopian, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg-Zojila axis. The IMD has cautioned that this intense weather activity could lead to significant disruptions in surface and air transportation, specifically mentioning the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and other major roads in higher altitudes. Travelers, tourists, and transporters have been advised to plan their movements accordingly. Furthermore, people residing in snow-bound areas are urged to avoid venturing into avalanche-prone and sloppy regions. Farmers have also received specific guidance to suspend irrigation, fertilizer application, and chemical spraying during the forecast period. The advisory also warns of potential landslides, mudslides, and gusty winds, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the anticipated impact. This forecast provides a stark contrast to the earlier dry conditions and above-normal temperatures observed in parts of Kashmir, sparking hope for an end to the prolonged dry spell and relief for the region's winter-dependent economy and ecology.