J&K: Srinagar freezes at minus 5.2 degrees; dry chilly weather persist
J&K: Srinagar city recorded a low temperature of minus 5.2 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, continuing Kashmir’s harsh dry cold.
In the morning, the Dal Lake was partially frozen, and almost all water taps, road puddles, ponds, and other tiny bodies of water were frozen.
Both drivers and pedestrians avoid going outside in the morning unless there is an emergency since the roads have gotten slick, particularly in the mornings.
The union territory’s minimum temperatures have continued to drop as a result of the clear night sky.
On January 16, a light Western Disturbance is predicted to bring rain and snow, followed three days later by two consecutive Western Disturbances, according to the Meteorological (MeT) Department.
According to MeT Department officials, “the plains of the Valley are likely to get their first snowfall of this season under the influence of these Western Disturbances.”
Since there hasn’t been any significant snowfall so far, J&K, particularly the Valley, is in a concerning scenario.
Since all of the water sources that support horticulture, agricultural, and drinking water requirements rely on significant snowfall during the 40-day period of very cold winter weather known locally as the “Chillai Kalan,” the extended dry spell has caused concern.
More than half of this important 40-day period has already passed, yet the Valley plains have not yet seen the first snowfall of the season.
On January 30, Chillai Kalan comes to an end. Snowfall in February and March has minimal impact since it melts rapidly and doesn’t contribute to the replenishment of the mountains’ perennial water reservoirs.
The lowest temperatures were – 5.2 degrees Celsius in Srinagar, minus 3.8 degrees in Gulmarg, and minus 6 degrees in Pahalgam.
The lowest temperature of the night was 4 degrees Celsius in Jammu City, 5.5 degrees in Katra, 4.5 degrees in Batote, 5.3 degrees in Banihal, and 0.5 degrees in Bhaderwah.
Officials have warned people to take measures against excessive cold in light of the low weather.