Jammu and Kashmir experienced a sharp cold wave on Tuesday, with Srinagar recording a minimum temperature of minus 4 degrees Celsius.
According to the Meteorological Department, no major western disturbance is expected to affect the region until January 20, indicating a low chance of heavy snowfall during this period.
Minimum temperatures recorded included minus 4°C in Srinagar, minus 8.6°C in Gulmarg, and minus 6.8°C in Pahalgam.
In Jammu city, the minimum temperature was 5.2°C, followed by Katra at 4.8°C, Batote at 1.7°C, Banihal at 1.5°C, and Bhaderwah at minus 2.2°C.
The 40-day harsh cold period, known locally as ‘Chillai Kalan’, began on December 21 and will end on January 30. Until the weather changes, the plains of the valley are unlikely to receive their first snowfall before January 20.
If Chillai Kalan passes without significant snowfall, water levels in rivers, streams, ponds, lakes, and wells during the summer months are expected to be very low. These water sources rely on perennial water reserves in the mountains during warmer months.
Residents of the valley are coping with the intense cold by wearing traditional woollen garments called ‘Pheran’. Along with Pherans, many wear multiple layers of woollen clothing to maintain warmth.
Most middle-aged and elderly Kashmiris wear woollen caps and mufflers, while many young people believe physical activity helps them endure the cold.
Doctors have warned people, especially the youth, against excessive physical exertion in extreme cold, as sudden changes in body temperature can be dangerous.
Senior citizens are advised to avoid going outdoors before 10 a.m., as mornings during winter are the coldest time of the day.
On Monday, the minimum temperature in Gulmarg ski resort was minus 8.8°C, while Srinagar recorded minus 3.6°C. Jammu city saw a minimum of 8.7°C, Katra 5.6°C, Batote 2.1°C, Banihal minus 1.3°C, and Bhaderwah minus 2.1°C.
Although fresh snowfall occurred in Gulmarg and Sonamarg, the valley has yet to experience heavy snowfall.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.