Srinagar, Jan 3: Kashmir is experiencing severe cold temperatures, compounded by dense fog that has hindered pedestrian and vehicular movement in Srinagar this morning.
A heavy layer of fog enveloped both the city and its surrounding areas, continuing the ongoing cold snap.
According to the Meteorological (MeT) Department, “On January 3, generally overcast skies with light snowfall in isolated higher altitudes are expected. From January 4-6, a Moderate to Strong Western Disturbance (WD) will lead to cloudy conditions accompanied by light to moderate rain in the plains of Jammu and snowfall across most regions of J&K, with the most intense conditions anticipated from the night of the 4th into late night on the 5th or early morning on the 6th.”
The forecast continues, stating, “From January 7-10, generally cloudy and dry conditions are expected, followed by additional light snowfall in some areas on January 11-12.”
The MeT Department has also issued an advisory urging tourists, travelers, and transporters to prepare accordingly in light of the anticipated fresh snowfall, sub-zero temperatures, and icy road conditions (in both plains and higher regions). There is a chance of heavy snow at isolated high-altitude areas during the night of the 4th into late night on the 5th.
This morning, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 2.2 degrees Celsius, while both Gulmarg and Pahalgam dipped to minus 4.5 degrees. In Jammu, the temperatures were milder, with the city at 7.3 degrees, Katra at 11, Batote at 5.8, Banihal at 2, and Bhaderwah at 2.3 degrees.
The 40-day spell of severe winter known as ‘Chillai Kalan’ commenced on December 21 and will conclude on January 30.
Almost all water bodies in the Valley, including lakes, springs, streams, and wells, have partially frozen over.
The treacherous road conditions have led to a rise in the number of patients visiting Srinagar’s Bone & Joint Hospital due to fractures, the only specialized facility for bone-related ailments in Kashmir Valley.
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