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Chillai Kalan ends, prolonged dry spell persists in J&K

In South Kashmir, Qazigund recorded a minimum temperature of minus 0.1°C, Kokernag 1.3°C, Pulwama minus 1.7°C, Khudwani minus 2.7°C, Kulgam minus 0.9°C, Shopian minus 0.4°C, and Larnoo minus 0.8°C
12:37 AM Jan 30, 2025 IST | SHABIR IBN YUSUF
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Mubashir Khan/GK

Srinagar, Jan 29: The 40-day harsh winter period of Chillai Kalan ended on a dry note, even as Jammu and Kashmir continues to reel under intense cold.

While some parts of the Valley received light rainfall on Wednesday evening, J&K largely remained devoid of significant precipitation, exacerbating concerns over water availability and snowfall deficit. Sonamarg, the famous tourist resort in central Kashmir received fresh snowfall in the evening.

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According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a fresh spell of light rain and snow is expected in parts of Kashmir today, particularly in the northern districts. Another Western Disturbance is forecast between January 31 and February 2, with a stronger and more active weather system likely to impact J&K from February 3 to 5.

Persistent dry and sunny conditions have led to a rise in daytime temperatures across the Valley, while sub-zero temperatures continue to grip the valley at night. MeT officials said here that until 5:30 PM on Wednesday, there was no precipitation, but late evening brought very light rainfall in isolated pockets of Kashmir

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In South Kashmir, Qazigund recorded a minimum temperature of minus 0.1°C, Kokernag 1.3°C, Pulwama minus 1.7°C, Khudwani minus 2.7°C, Kulgam minus 0.9°C, Shopian minus 0.4°C, and Larnoo minus 0.8°C.

North Kashmir districts also recorded cold conditions, with Kupwara registering 1.0°C and Baramulla 0.8°C. Meanwhile, in Central Kashmir, Budgam saw a minimum of minus 0.6°C, Sonamarg minus 0.7°C, and Ganderbal remained relatively warmer at 2.1°C.

In Jammu division, the winter capital Jammu recorded a minimum temperature of 11.2°C, while Banihal stood at 3.3°C, Batote at 7.7°C, Katra at 10.3°C, Kishtwar at 7.7°C, and Padder at minus 0.7°C. Other notable temperature recordings include Poonch at 6.5°C, Rajouri at 5.6°C, Samba at 10.0°C, Kathua at 9.4°C, Reasi at 9.5°C, and Udhampur at 8.0°C.

The cold wave continues to grip Ladakh, where Leh recorded a minimum temperature of minus 5.9°C, Kargil minus 4.9°C, and Drass, known as the second coldest inhabited place in the world, plummeted to minus 7.5°C.

The prolonged dry spell has raised concerns among farmers, orchardists, and environmentalists, as snow during Chillai Kalan is crucial for replenishing water bodies and ensuring a steady supply of water for irrigation in the summer months.

 

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