Night temperatures across the Kashmir Valley have risen as the intense winter phase known as Chillai Kalan concluded on Friday. This 40-day period typically brings frigid weather, but the improvement in temperatures offers much-needed relief from severe cold conditions.
Officials from the Meteorological Department reported that areas including Srinagar experienced night temperatures rising above the freezing mark. The minimum temperature in Srinagar reached 1.3 degrees Celsius, a notable increase from the minus 0.6 degrees recorded the previous night. This figure also exceeded the seasonal average by 2.2 degrees.
Other regions recorded similar favorable conditions with Konibal at 1.0 degrees Celsius, Pulwama slightly above at 0.1 degrees, and Kulgam reporting 1.1 degrees. Most weather monitoring stations throughout the Valley indicated minimum temperatures above normal for this time of year.
Despite the overall rise in temperatures, higher altitude areas continue to experience harsh cold. Sonamarg in Ganderbal district remained the coldest location, recording minus 10.6 degrees Celsius, a slight improvement from the previous night’s minus 11.2 degrees. The famed ski resort of Gulmarg logged minus 9 degrees, while Pahalgam in south Kashmir observed minus 5.3 degrees.
Among other notable weather statistics, Qazigund reported a low of minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, Kokernag minus 0.6 degrees, and Kupwara minus 3.1 degrees.
Chillai Kalan, which commenced on December 21, marks the coldest segment of winter in Kashmir, characterized by frequent snowfall especially in elevated regions. As this period closes, the Valley transitions to a 20-day phase called Chillai Khurd (small cold), succeeded by the 10-day Chillai Bachha (baby cold).
The Meteorological Department announced a forecast indicating a fresh western disturbance might impact the region starting Sunday, potentially leading to another round of inclement weather. This expected development could stir additional cold spells and intermittent snowfall, common during this time of year.
Community members and local businesses eagerly anticipate any changes that the impending weather may bring, as many rely on the ski season for economic sustenance. They are bracing for a rollercoaster winter, with fluctuating temperatures that challenge everyday life in the Valley.