Srinagar, Dec 16: The minimum temperatures in Kashmir have dropped significantly below freezing on Monday, with only a weak winter sun breaking through a slight cloud coverage in Jammu.
The Valley’s skies remained overcast, with sunlight occasionally filtering through in the Jammu division. Cold wave conditions persist, with the Meteorological (MeT) office predicting continued cold, dry weather until December 21, along with light snowfall expected in higher altitudes from the evening of December 21 to the morning of December 22.
Srinagar recorded a low of minus 3.4°C, Gulmarg minus 4°C, and Pahalgam minus 5°C. Meanwhile, minimum temperatures in Jammu city were recorded at 5°C, Katra 6.9°C, Batote 4.5°C, Banihal 1°C, and Bhaderwah 3.9°C.
The harsh morning chill leads residents to stay indoors and rush home early in the evenings to escape the icy winds.
The 40-day period of extreme winter cold, known locally as ‘Chillai Kalan’, begins on December 21 and concludes on January 30. During this time, the disparity between maximum and minimum temperatures decreases sharply, amplifying the cold sensation.
Kashmiris traditionally stock up on dried vegetables such as eggplant, tomatoes, and pumpkins during the autumn to use throughout the winter months.
Due to ongoing power supply issues caused by the Jammu and Kashmir government’s financial constraints in securing enough electricity from external sources, residents have turned to age-old methods to combat the frigid winter temperatures. Locals often wear a loose tweed overgarment called the ‘Pheran’, under which they keep an earthen firepot known as ‘Kangri’, woven in a willow basket. This pot, filled with embers, serves as an effective heating solution that has survived the test of time in the isolated Kashmir Valley. (Agencies)
