Kashmir Valley experienced a marked rise in night temperatures as the 40-day period known as Chillai Kalan concluded on Friday. Officials from the Meteorological Department confirmed that this shift brings much-needed relief from severe cold typically seen during this winter phase.
In several regions, including Srinagar, night temperatures soared above freezing. The temperature in Srinagar climbed to 1.3 degrees Celsius, a substantial increase from the prior night’s minus 0.6 degrees. This reading also stands 2.2 degrees above the seasonal average, signaling a significant change in the weather.
Other areas also noted a welcome rise in temperatures. Konibal recorded 1.0 degrees Celsius, while Pulwama saw 0.1 degrees, and Kulgam logged 1.1 degrees Celsius. The overall trend shows that most weather stations throughout the Valley reported minimum temperatures above the normal levels for this time of year.
Despite this rise in lower altitudes, cold conditions persist in higher regions. The coldest recorded location in Jammu and Kashmir, Sonamarg, registered a low of minus 10.6 degrees Celsius, slightly higher than the previous night’s minus 11.2 degrees. The popular ski destination Gulmarg logged minus 9 degrees, while Pahalgam in southern Kashmir reported minus 5.3 degrees Celsius.
Other notable temperature readings included Qazigund at minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, Kokernag with minus 0.6 degrees, and Kupwara at minus 3.1 degrees.
Chillai Kalan, commencing on December 21, traditionally marks the coldest segment of winter in Kashmir, characterized by frequent snowfall in elevated areas. With its conclusion, the Valley transitions into a 20-day Chillai Khurd or small cold, followed thereafter by the brief 10-day Chillai Bachha, known as baby cold.
Looking ahead, the Meteorological Department has forecast a fresh western disturbance that may impact the region starting Sunday, likely ushering in another wave of wet weather. This development may further alter the current conditions and provide additional moisture to an already complex winter landscape.
