Banihal witnessed the season’s first snowfall on Tuesday morning, breaking a weather record of more than five decades. The higher reaches of Banihal, including Mahu, Pogal-Paristan, and adjoining regions, were blanketed under a fresh layer of snow, turning the landscape into a winter wonderland well ahead of schedule. The unexpected early snowfall, coupled with heavy rain in the plains, led to a sharp drop in temperature, making the region experience January-like cold conditions. The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was closed due to landslides and shooting stones between Udhampur and Banihal, disrupting traffic. According to SSP Traffic NHW, the highway remains temporarily closed and restoration work is underway to ensure commuter safety. Residents across Ramban district were seen adopting warmer clothing earlier than usual, as the chill reminded many of the deep winter months. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecast the possibility of first snowfall in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir between October 5 and 7, which came true with this record-breaking event.