Srinagar experienced the coldest night of the season on Friday, with the mercury plunging to minus 6 degrees Celsius. This drop in temperature marked the lowest recorded minimum for this winter so far in Jammu and Kashmir.
The chilly night caused water taps, road puddles, and small lakes across the valley to freeze. On Thursday, Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 11.2 degrees Celsius, narrowing the gap between daytime highs and nighttime lows.
The Meteorological Department has forecast mostly dry and cold weather until January 20, with very little chance of rainfall or snowfall during this period. The continued dry spell has raised concerns across Jammu and Kashmir, as the region’s agriculture, horticulture, and drinking water needs heavily rely on heavy snowfall during the 40-day intense cold phase known locally as ‘Chillai Kalan’.
Half of this critical cold period has already passed, but the plains of the valley have yet to witness any snowfall this season. The Chillai Kalan phase will end on January 30. Snowfall in February and March usually has minimal impact since it melts quickly and does not significantly replenish perennial mountain water reservoirs.
Other parts of the region also recorded low temperatures, with Gulmarg Ski Resort at minus 7.2 degrees Celsius and Pahalgam at minus 7.6 degrees Celsius. Jammu city saw a minimum of 5.6 degrees Celsius, Katra 3.5 degrees, Batote 1 degree, Banihal minus 0.9 degrees, and Bhaderwah minus 3.4 degrees Celsius.
Hospitals and clinics have reported an increase in patients with respiratory and cardiac ailments, attributed to the cold and dry weather conditions. Medical experts have advised individuals with a history of heart and lung diseases to exercise extra caution and avoid going outdoors during severe cold spells.
Residents are urged to take necessary precautions as the region braces for continued cold and dry weather over the coming weeks.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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