Srinagar, Dec 24: The Kashmir Valley continues to reel under the icy grip of Chillai Kalan, the harshest 40-day period of winter, as temperatures plummeted across the region on Day 4. According to the Kashmir weather forecast, Srinagar recorded a bone-chilling low of -6.6°C, marking one of the coldest nights of the season. Tourist hotspots Pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded minimum temperatures of -7.8°C and -1.9°C, respectively, with Gulmarg offering slightly less severe respite for visitors.
Intense cold wave conditions persisted across the valley as sub-zero temperatures remained several degrees below freezing point. The sub-zero temperatures led to the freezing of water supply lines, and several water bodies began to freeze over. Shopian emerged as the coldest recorded location at -8.8°C, followed closely by Anantnag at -8.3°C and Larnoo, also at -8.3°C. The summer capital, Srinagar, felt the strain of the harsh winter yet again, recording -6.6°C.
Other areas were not far behind with Pulwama at -8.5°C, Budgam at -7.0°C, and Khudwani at -7.1°C. The biting frosts extended far and wide across the valley, snaking through Bandipora and Kupwara, which both touched -6.4°C, mirroring the deepening chill. Ganderbal and Baramulla also recorded lows of -6.0°C, adding to the extraordinary conditions.
While Kashmir Valley remains frozen, temperatures across the Jammu region were relatively milder. Jammu city recorded 7.6°C, and areas like Katra, Banihal, and Bhaderwah reported lows of 6.4°C and 0.9°C, reflecting the stark difference across the regions.
The Ladakh region continues its bone-chilling trend with Leh recording -9.2°C and Kargil at -7.8°C. The meteorological department has indicated the expected continuation of dry weather, yet advised residents to remain cautious as icy road conditions hamper travel, especially at higher altitudes.
According to local reports from Kashmir Images, the freezing temperatures are part of the vicious Chillai Kalan, which not only brings exceptionally low temperatures but often leads to heavy snowfall. Many residents have expressed their concerns over the unexpected harshness of winter this season. "It’s so cold right now, and there’s a high chance of snowfall soon," voiced one local resident.
The conditions have presented new challenges as frozen water bodies create hazards for both people and travel. Reports indicate thin sheets of ice were seen on the surface of popular water bodies, including the iconic Dal Lake, which is starting to freeze, presenting both challenges and rare visual spectacles for tourists visiting the valley.
Boatmen attempting to navigate the now partially frozen Dal Lake have been spotted trying to row their shikaras over the icy waters. This picturesque yet troublesome scene showcases the iconic beauty of the area, now toughened by nature’s bitter cold. Local communities, heavily reliant on tourism popularized by the breathtaking views of Dal Lake, are wrestling with the challenges from this weather phenomenon.
The situation has escalated, with warnings issued for dangers caused by the severe cold and poor conditions on roads. "Tourists and travelers are advised to follow advisory issued by the administration," the meteorological department stressed. Residents are gathering around bonfires and wearing heavy winter clothing as they try to cope with the biting cold temperatures.
Focusing on public safety, local authorities and the meteorological department have been proactive, warning visitors to heed advisories during this extreme weather. Haphazard travel plans can lead to dangerous situations, especially concerning icy roads and potentially stranded vehicles.
The consequences of the icy months parameter of Chillai Kalan still loom, with extensive cold spell expected to resonates through the winter months. Reports from the department suggest temperatures may dip even lower, resulting in possible snowfall and travel disruptions as residents brace for the upcoming weeks.
The freezing temperatures pose both wonders and dangers, indicating the raw, unyielding nature the winter brings to Kashmir. Locals urge potential visitors to prepare adequately and remain informed as they navigate this winter paradise, rife with both beauty and caution.
With the cold grabbing hold firmly across the region and the signature winters of Kashmir approaching their peak, the world is left to ponder how this serene beauty intertwines with the formidable power of nature.
