Srinagar Records Coldest Night of the Season at Minus 5.1°C

by

Bhupendra Singh Chundawat

Srinagar Records Coldest Night of the Season at Minus 5.1°C

Srinagar experienced its coldest night of the season with the minimum temperature plunging to minus 5.1 degrees Celsius, according to the local meteorological department. This marks the lowest temperature recorded in the city so far this winter.

Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department, informed news agencies that Srinagar’s minimum temperature reached minus 5.1°C, making it the coldest night of the current season in the city.

Other areas in Jammu and Kashmir also recorded low temperatures. Gulmarg saw a minimum of minus 9.2°C, while Pahalgam recorded minus 8.6°C. Jammu city experienced a low of 7.1°C, Katra 4.1°C, Batote 2.8°C, Banihal 3.7°C, and Bhaderwah minus 3.4°C.

The weather department has forecasted cold and dry conditions in Kashmir until January 20, raising concerns among residents about the possibility of drought in the coming months. The apprehension is heightened because the ongoing 40-day harsh winter period known as ‘Chillai Kalan’, which began on December 21, will end on January 30. This period is crucial as heavy snowfall during these days replenishes perennial water reservoirs in the mountains.

Snowfall in February and March tends to melt quickly and does not last long. Therefore, insufficient snowfall during Chillai Kalan could lead to water shortages during the summer months. Notably, Srinagar city has not yet seen its first snowfall for nearly half of this winter season.

On Thursday, the valley experienced clear skies with mild winter sunshine. However, despite the bright sun, temperatures remained low as the winter sun was unable to sufficiently warm the valley in the morning hours.

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