Srinagar, Dec. 17 -- The prolonged dry weather in Kashmir is likely to end with the onset of Chillai Kalan, the harshest 40-day winter period, as a wet spell is expected to affect the valley later this week, officials said on Wednesday.

The local weather office said a western disturbance is likely to impact Jammu and Kashmir during December 21 and 22, coinciding with the beginning of Chillai Kalan on December 21. Due to the system, moderate to heavy snowfall is expected in the higher reaches, while the plains may witness light to moderate rain or snowfall.

Chillai Kalan marks the coldest phase of winter in Kashmir, a period when snowfall is most frequent and temperatures drop sharply across the valley. The phase will continue till Janua...