Kashmir Valley experienced a notable rise in night temperatures as the 40-day intense winter phase known as Chillai Kalan concluded on Friday. This change brings much-needed relief from the severe cold conditions typically associated with this period, according to officials.
The Meteorological Department reported that several regions within the valley have recorded minimum temperatures above freezing. In Srinagar, the night temperature climbed to 1.3 degrees Celsius, a significant increase from the previous night’s minus 0.6 degrees. This temperature also exceeds the seasonal average by 2.2 degrees.
Other areas reporting above-freezing night temperatures include Konibal at 1.0 degrees Celsius, Pulwama at 0.1 degrees, and Kulgam at 1.1 degrees. Weather stations across the valley confirm that the minimum temperatures have outperformed normal averages for this time of year.
Conversely, colder conditions continue to affect higher altitude regions. Sonamarg, nestled in the Ganderbal district, recorded the Valley’s lowest temperature at minus 10.6 degrees Celsius, marginally up from minus 11.2 degrees the prior night. The popular ski destination, Gulmarg, noted minus 9 degrees, while Pahalgam in southern Kashmir logged minus 5.3 degrees Celsius.
Other stations like Qazigund, Kokernag, and Kupwara reported lows of minus 0.3, minus 0.6, and minus 3.1 degrees Celsius, respectively.
The Chillai Kalan, which commenced on December 21, marks the traditional coldest phase of winter in Kashmir and is known for frequent snowfall, especially in elevated areas. With its conclusion, the valley transitions into the Chillai Khurd or ‘small cold,’ lasting for 20 days and followed by the Chillai Bachha or ‘baby cold’ lasting 10 days.
The Meteorological Department has also indicated that a fresh western disturbance is set to influence the region starting Sunday, possibly ushering in another spell of wet weather.
