SRINAGAR, Jan 27: Kashmir is once again experiencing a severe cold wave as temperatures plummet well below freezing. Meanwhile, the Jammu division continues to enjoy mild weather.
According to officials from the Meteorological (MeT) department, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 5.5 degrees Celsius, with Gulmarg and Pahalgam at minus 5.2 and minus 6.4 degrees, respectively.
Conversely, Jammu city stayed warm with a minimum temperature of 5.8 degrees, while Katra, the base camp for Mata Vaishno Devi, recorded 8.2 degrees. Batote saw 4.7 degrees, Banihal had 1.5, and Bhaderwah registered 1.4 degrees.
In Srinagar and other towns in the Valley, water pipes froze once more, prompting residents to light small fires around them to thaw them out. Many chose to stay indoors in the morning to escape the cold.
Transportation was limited during the early hours, but roads became busier as the sun climbed higher.
The MeT has indicated that generally cloudy conditions with light rain are expected from the evening of January 28 through January 31.
The intensely cold 40-day period known as ‘Chillai Kalan’ commenced on December 21 and will conclude on January 30. From February 1, the weather is anticipated to gradually improve, although snowfall can still occur in Kashmir Valley through early March.
In Jammu, the weather has already turned more favorable, with Sunday’s maximum temperature reaching 21.8 degrees Celsius. Residents are beginning to pack away their winter garments, opting instead for lighter summer attire. The wheat fields are vibrant green due to the Rabi crop, promising a fruitful harvest for the dedicated farmers of the Jammu division.
Medical professionals have advised residents in Kashmir, particularly children and the elderly, to limit exposure to extreme cold, which can lead to blood vessel constriction and increase the risk of myocardial infarction. Those with this condition are at a higher risk for heart attacks and heart failure. (Agencies)
