Sub-zero chill grips Kashmir

Srinagar, Nov 21: Most parts of Kashmir reeled under sub-zero night temperatures on Thursday as the Valley braces for the full onset of winter.

The Meteorological Department (MeT) officials said that the chilling conditions were caused by a combination of recent snowfall in the higher reaches and prolonged dry spells that had intensified the cold wave.

They said that Srinagar recorded a low of minus 0.4 degrees Celsius, slightly higher than the previous night’s minus 0.7 degrees Celsius, but still 1.1 degrees Celsius below the average for this time of the year.

The prolonged dry weather, interrupted only by last week’s snowfall in the higher altitudes, has contributed to sharp dips in temperature across Kashmir.

In south Kashmir’s Qazigund, the mercury dropped to minus 2 degrees Celsius, while the popular tourist destination Pahalgam experienced the season’s lowest at minus 3.2 degrees Celsius.

Ski-resort of Gulmarg in Baramulla district, recorded a minimum of 0 degrees Celsius, with Kupwara in north Kashmir settling at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius. Kokernag remained a rare exception, where the temperature stayed above freezing at 0.7 degrees Celsius.

Snowfall last week in areas like Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and the higher reaches of Kupwara and Bandipora added to the biting cold.

These fresh snow deposits have not only enhanced the winter landscape but also heightened the chill across the Valley’s plains.

The current cold wave follows an extended dry spell that has left many water sources dwindling and increased the demand for heating facilities across Kashmir.

Dry weather, combined with plummeting temperatures, is making mornings foggy and icy.

The MeT has predicted that the cold wave will persist at least until November 23.

A slight change in the weather pattern is expected on November 24, with cloudy skies and a possibility of light rain or snow in higher altitudes.

However, Kashmir’s plains are likely to remain dry, offering no relief from the bone-chilling cold.

The early arrival of winter-like conditions has heightened preparations for the harsh ‘Chillai Kalan’, the 40-day coldest period of winter starting December 21, traditionally associated with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall.