SRINAGAR, Jan 17: Following recent snowfall, temperatures across most parts of Kashmir have dropped significantly, as reported by the meteorological department. Officials announced that dry weather is expected for the next three days.
Snowfall was recorded in the higher reaches of Kashmir and some low-lying areas on Thursday, leading to a further drop in night temperatures. As of Thursday night, Srinagar’s minimum temperature was recorded at minus 2 degrees Celsius, a slight increase from minus 2.5 degrees Celsius the previous night.
The popular ski destination of Gulmarg in north Kashmir experienced a minimum temperature of minus 7 degrees Celsius. In Pahalgam, a key base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra in south Kashmir, the temperature plummeted to minus 11.8 degrees Celsius, markedly lower than the previous night’s minus 4.2 degrees Celsius.
Other recorded minimum temperatures include minus 2.4 degrees Celsius in Qazigund, minus 2 degrees Celsius in Pampore’s Konibal, minus 2.7 degrees Celsius in Kupwara, and minus 2.4 degrees Celsius in Kokernag.
Looking ahead, the meteorological office predicts mainly dry weather in Kashmir until January 19, with a chance of light rain or snow at isolated locations from January 20 to 22.
Currently, Kashmir is experiencing the ‘Chillai-Kalan’ period, known for its intense winter conditions. This 40-day phase, which began on December 21, is characterized by a high likelihood of snowfall and significant drops in temperature. ‘Chillai-Kalan’ will conclude on January 30, after which the region will transition into the 20-day ‘Chillai-Khurd’ (small cold) followed by a 10-day ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold). (Agencies)
