Nigh temperatures across the Kashmir Valley have risen significantly as the Chillai Kalan concludes, providing relief from severe cold. Officials announced the end of the 40-day intense winter phase on Friday, noting that the shift resulted in warmer nights.
According to the Meteorological Department, areas like Srinagar saw night temperatures rise above the freezing mark. The temperature in Srinagar reached 1.3 degrees Celsius, a noticeable increase from the previous night’s minus 0.6 degrees Celsius. This value stands 2.2 degrees higher than the seasonal average.
Additional regions, including Konibal at 1.0 degrees Celsius, Pulwama at 0.1 degrees, and Kulgam at 1.1 degrees, also recorded above-freezing temperatures. Most weather stations across the Valley confirmed that minimum temperatures exceeded normal levels for this time of year.
However, cold conditions persist in higher altitudes. Sonamarg, located in Ganderbal district, recorded the lowest temperatures in Jammu and Kashmir with a minimum of minus 10.6 degrees Celsius, though this is an improvement compared to the previous night’s minus 11.2 degrees. The famed ski resort of Gulmarg noted temperatures of minus 9 degrees, while Pahalgam registered minus 5.3 degrees Celsius.
Other notable stations reported Qazigund at minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, Kokernag at minus 0.6 degrees, and Kupwara at minus 3.1 degrees Celsius.
Historically, Chillai Kalan, which began on December 21, marks the coldest winter stretch in Kashmir, characterized by frequent snowfall, particularly in elevated regions. Its conclusion signals the Valley’s transition into the 20-day Chillai Khurd (small cold), soon followed by the 10-day Chillai Bachha (baby cold).
The Meteorological Department predicts that a fresh western disturbance may impact the region starting Sunday, potentially introducing a new spell of wet weather. Residents look forward to possible changes as the weather fluctuates.
