Cold Wave Eases in Jammu and Kashmir as Chilla-e-Kalan Ends; IMD Issues Fog Alert for Seven States, Snowfall Expected in Four States Till February 5
Srinagar : The harsh 40-day winter period of Chilla-e-Kalan in Jammu and Kashmir officially came to an end on January 30, bringing relief from extreme cold conditions. While the final day of the coldest spell saw sunny skies across most districts, clouds gathered by evening, indicating possible rain and snowfall in the coming days.
The beginning of Chilla-e-Kalan this year had broken records, with Srinagar recording an unprecedented -8.5ยฐC on the first day, marking the coldest temperature in over 50 years. However, despite the bone-chilling temperatures, snowfall remained minimal, and rainfall was also significantly below average for January.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), two new Western Disturbances will become active on February 1 and February 3, impacting weather patterns across northwestern India, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. These disturbances are expected to bring rain and snowfall till February 5 in the hilly regions, while scattered rainfall is likely over parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Meanwhile, the IMD has issued a dense fog alert for seven states, including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, warning of low visibility conditions affecting travel. Additionally, a gradual rise of 2-3 degrees Celsius in minimum temperatures is anticipated across most parts of the country over the next three days.
Western Disturbances to Bring Snowfall and Rain in Northwestern States
Meteorologists have predicted that the incoming Western Disturbances will intensify winter conditions across the Himalayan states.
Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand will witness moderate to heavy snowfall till February 5.
Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh may experience scattered rain showers due to the influence of these disturbances.
Dense fog is expected to persist over parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, and Haryana, affecting road, rail, and air travel.
The IMD has urged residents to take necessary precautions, especially for travelers and farmers, as sudden weather changes may impact daily activities.
Coldest Days of Chilla-e-Kalan Marked by Record Low Temperatures
This yearโs Chilla-e-Kalan, which started on December 21, 2024, witnessed record-breaking temperatures in multiple regions of Jammu and Kashmir:
Srinagar touched -8.5ยฐC, breaking a 50-year-old record for the coldest temperature recorded in the city.
Gulmarg and Pahalgam consistently recorded sub-zero temperatures, leading to frozen water bodies.
Ladakhโs Drass region, known as the โGateway to Ladakhโ, saw temperatures drop to -25ยฐC at times.
While extreme cold prevailed, this yearโs snowfall was significantly lower than expected, raising concerns over water supply levels for the upcoming summer months.
Weather Forecast for February 1, 2025
According to the IMDโs latest weather bulletin, hereโs what different regions of India can expect:
North India: Generally clear skies over Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh except for dense fog during early mornings.
Rajasthan & Gujarat: Stable weather conditions, though isolated fog patches may be observed in some areas.
Eastern India (West Bengal & Odisha): No major weather disturbances expected.
Southern India (Tamil Nadu & Puducherry): Likely to experience rain showers due to moisture-laden winds.
Northeastern States (Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura): Fog alert issued, causing reduced visibility in the early morning hours.
Temperature Trends: India Braces for Warmer Days Ahead
Over the next three days, a gradual increase of 2-3ยฐC in minimum temperatures is expected across most parts of India, indicating a transition from peak winter conditions.
Why is the temperature rising?
The passage of Western Disturbances often brings short-term warming trends, leading to cloud cover and changes in wind patterns.
Hilly areas may experience rainfall and snowfall, while plains will witness foggy mornings but relatively warmer days.
Farmers, transport authorities, and residents are advised to stay updated with IMD alerts as sudden temperature fluctuations can impact agriculture, transport, and daily life.
Impact of Fog Alerts on Transportation
Railways: Several trains running through Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar may experience delays due to dense fog conditions.
Air Travel: Airports in Delhi, Lucknow, Patna, and Chandigarh may face flight delays and disruptions.
Road Traffic: Low visibility conditions could pose risks for highway travel, and drivers are urged to exercise caution.
The IMD has urged travelers to check weather updates before setting out and use fog lights while driving in affected areas.
Jammu & Kashmirโs Winter Transition: Whatโs Next?
With Chilla-e-Kalan officially over, Jammu and Kashmir will now enter the Chilla-e-Khurd (little cold) phase, lasting from January 31 to February 19.
What happens during Chilla-e-Khurd?
- Temperatures gradually rise, but cold conditions persist.
- Light snowfall is still common, but intense blizzards and freezing temperatures ease.
- This phase serves as a transition to the milder Chilla-e-Bachha (baby cold), which lasts until March.
Key Takeaways & Final Thoughts
Chilla-e-Kalan ends in Jammu & Kashmir, bringing slight relief from extreme cold.
Western Disturbances will trigger snowfall in 4 states and rain in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Dense fog alerts issued for 7 states, including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
IMD predicts a gradual increase of 2-3ยฐC in minimum temperatures over the next three days.
Travel disruptions expected due to fog; citizens advised to stay updated with weather alerts.
As winter progresses, India will soon see rising temperatures, but for now, cold spells, fog, and snowfall continue to shape daily life in several states. Citizens are advised to take necessary precautions and follow IMD updates for the latest weather changes.
