Kashmir Valley has welcomed a rise in night temperatures as the 40-day Chillai Kalan period of intense winter ended on Friday. Officials confirmed that several regions, including Srinagar, recorded minimum temperatures above the freezing point, providing much-needed relief from the biting cold.
The region’s minimum temperature saw a significant increase in Srinagar, where it climbed to 1.3 degrees Celsius from minus 0.6 degrees the previous night. This temperature exceeded the seasonal average by 2.2 degrees, indicating an optimistic shift in weather patterns.
Areas such as Konibal, Pulwama, and Kulgam also recorded above-freezing temperatures of 1.0, 0.1, and 1.1 degrees Celsius, respectively. Most weather stations across the Valley reported minimum temperatures exceeding what is typical for this time of year.
Despite the rise in temperatures for many, colder conditions persisted in higher altitude areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Sonamarg, located in Ganderbal district, remained the coldest spot, registering a chilling minimum temperature of minus 10.6 degrees Celsius. While this was a slight improvement from the previous night’s minus 11.2 degrees, it continues to emphasize the region’s diverse climatic conditions.
The ski resort of Gulmarg recorded minus 9 degrees Celsius, and Pahalgam, known for its stunning landscapes, noted a temperature of minus 5.3 degrees Celsius. Other stations did not fare better; Qazigund showed a low of minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, Kokernag reported minus 0.6 degrees, and Kupwara marked minus 3.1 degrees.
Chillai Kalan, which commenced on December 21, is known for being the coldest phase of winter in Kashmir. This period isn’t just significant for its temperatures; it often brings consistent snowfall, particularly in the higher reaches. As this intense winter phase concludes, the Valley now transitions into Chillai Khurd, a smaller cold period lasting 20 days, followed by Chillai Bachha, which lasts another 10 days.
The Meteorological Department has issued forecasts indicating that a fresh western disturbance could affect the region starting Sunday, suggesting the potential for yet another spell of wet weather. Residents hope that the recent rise in temperatures continues, easing the frigid conditions for all.
