What Caused Pahalgam to Freeze at Minus 5.6°C and Srinagar to Shiver at Minus 4.4°C?
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Synopsis
Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing an unprecedented cold snap, with Pahalgam and Srinagar recording their lowest November temperatures in over a decade. Discover how locals are braving the chill and what this means for the upcoming winter season in the Valley.
Key Takeaways
- Pahalgam and Srinagar recorded their coldest temperatures in years.
- The cold wave has led to early winter vacations for schools.
- Residents are adapting to the extreme weather with traditional attire.
- Chillai Kalan is a significant period affecting daily life in the Valley.
- Water bodies are expected to freeze, complicating daily routines.
Srinagar, Nov 30 (NationPress) The renowned tourist destination of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir experienced a chilling temperature of minus 5.6 degrees Celsius this Sunday, while Srinagar recorded a frosty minus 4.4 degrees Celsius, marking the coldest November in the Valley since 2007.
Officials from the Meteorological (MeT) Department reported that temperatures dipped to minus 4.4 degrees Celsius in Srinagar, minus 5.6 degrees Celsius in Pahalgam, and minus 1.4 degrees Celsius in Gulmarg.
“November 2023 has documented the lowest minimum temperature since November 2007. Jammu city recorded 8.8 degrees, Katra town 9 degrees, Batote 4.7 degrees, Banihal minus 0.7 degrees, and Bhaderwah 0.3 degrees as the minimum temperature today,” the MeT officials stated, further predicting that the weather will remain dry until December 10, with a likelihood of a further drop in minimum temperatures during this time.
As the nighttime temperatures fell below freezing, a weak winter sun struggled to break through the hazy skies, offering little warmth to early risers and morning walkers.
With the intensifying cold wave, authorities have declared winter vacations for students up to class 8 starting December 1, while classes 9 to 12 will begin their winter break on December 11.
Residents have begun donning the traditional winter garment known as the Pheran, a warm tweed overcoat. In both rural and urban areas, many people are seen using the Kangri, an earthen firepot crafted from willow, filled with live coals, to keep warm beneath their Pherans.
The harsh winter phase known as Chillai Kalan lasts for 40 days, commencing on December 21 and concluding on January 30 each year.
Throughout this period of extreme cold, water bodies in the Valley typically freeze, forcing residents to contend with frozen taps in the mornings.
During Chillai Kalan, the temperature difference between day and night narrows significantly, with nighttime lows ranging from minus 5 to minus 7, and daytime temperatures seldom reaching double digits.
Point of View
Emphasizing the profound impact of the cold wave on local life and yet maintaining an objective tone. As the winter season unfolds, it highlights the resilience of the community and the cultural practices that come into play during this harsh period.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recent temperatures recorded in Jammu and Kashmir?
Pahalgam recorded minus 5.6 degrees Celsius and Srinagar minus 4.4 degrees Celsius.
What is Chillai Kalan?
Chillai Kalan is a 40-day period of extreme winter cold in Jammu and Kashmir, beginning on December 21.
When do winter vacations start for students?
Winter vacations for classes up to 8 begin on December 1, and for classes 9 to 12 on December 11.
How do locals keep warm during the winter?
Locals wear the traditional Pheran and use a Kangri, an earthen firepot with live coals, to stay warm.
Why is November 2023 significant in terms of temperature?
It marks the coldest November in Jammu and Kashmir since 2007.
