CHILLAI KALAN’S LAST LAP | Kashmir gears up for rain, snow

Srinagar, Jan 21: With Kashmir witnessing three-quarters of the formidable 40-day Chillai Kalan winter period without precipitation, the weatherman has forecasted a wet spell in the final phase.

The Meteorological Department officials here said that dry weather is anticipated to persist until Wednesday, with a shift expected in the later stages.

The forecast predicts generally cloudy weather with light snowfall in isolated higher regions on January 24 and 25.

From January 27 to 28, the officials said Kashmir is likely to experience generally cloudy weather with light rain or snowfall at scattered locations.

Moreover, the period from January 29 to 31 presents the possibility of light to moderate rain or snow in numerous places.

In the immediate forecast, the MeT has predicted moderate to dense fog and a decrease in daytime temperatures across the plains of the Jammu division over the next two days.

Srinagar recorded a low of minus 4.8 degrees Celsius, Qazigund at minus 5 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam at minus 6.5 degrees Celsius, Kokernag at minus 2.3 degrees Celsius, Kupwara at minus 5.7 degrees Celsius, and Gulmarg at minus 5 degrees Celsius while Jammu recorded a minimum of 5.6 degrees Celsius.

Although Chillai Kalan ends on January 29, marking the end of the 40-day severe cold period, winter does not conclude entirely.

Following this, the region enters a 20-day-long Chillai Khurd period between January 30 and February 18, succeeded by a 10-day Chillai Bachha from February 19 to February 28.

As anticipation builds for the forecasted wet spell, residents have been advised to stay updated with the latest weather developments.