What Is the Coldest Night Recorded in J&K’s Srinagar?
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Synopsis
Srinagar has recorded its coldest night of the season with temperatures plunging to 0.2 degrees Celsius. This chilling development, alongside freezing conditions in Gulmarg and Pahalgam, signals the onset of a harsh winter in Jammu and Kashmir. Discover how locals are bracing for the cold as winter progresses.
Key Takeaways
- Srinagar recorded its coldest night at 0.2 degrees Celsius.
- Temperatures in Gulmarg and Pahalgam fell below freezing.
- Residents are using traditional methods like the Kangri for warmth.
- The Chillai Kalan period is marked by severe cold and frozen water bodies.
- Local winter attire includes the Pheran and woollen jerseys.
Srinagar, Nov 7 (NationPress) On Friday, the minimum temperature in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar plummeted to 0.2 degrees Celsius, marking the coldest night of the season thus far. Meanwhile, the mercury dipped below freezing in the hill stations of Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
According to officials from the Meteorological Department, Gulmarg recorded a chilling -2.6 degrees while Pahalgam noted -3 degrees as the minimum temperature today. Following recent snowfall in the surrounding mountains and a clear night sky predicted for the upcoming 10 days, temperatures are anticipated to drop even lower in Kashmir.
As temperatures decline, residents have turned to traditional garments and the Kangri, an earthen pot encased in wicker, filled with hot embers for warmth.
Local winter attire, including the tweed overgarment known as the Pheran and woollen jerseys, are commonly worn to combat the cold. As the season progresses, people will likely add more layers of woollen clothing, such as mufflers and caps.
During the day, a weak autumn sun offers some relief for those seeking warmth, but chilly winds from snow-covered mountains hinder its effectiveness.
The coldest part of the winter season, known as 'Chillai Kalan', spans 40 days from December 21 to January 30 each year.
During this timeframe, many water bodies in the Valley partially freeze, creating extremely slippery road conditions that compel commuters and drivers to wait until the morning hours when temperatures rise slightly.
Water taps frequently freeze during the 40-day 'Chillai Kalan', prompting people to ignite small fires around them each morning to thaw the ice.
On Friday, the minimum temperature in Jammu city was reported at 11.6 degrees Celsius, while the Mata Vaishno Devi base camp town, Katra, recorded 12.1 degrees, Batote saw 6.1, Banihal recorded 8.8, and Bhaderwah noted 4.5 degrees Celsius.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of these temperature drops in Jammu and Kashmir. The extreme cold not only affects daily life but also brings forth challenges in water supply and transport. Therefore, it is essential to keep the public informed about these climatic changes and their implications.
NationPress
07/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum temperature recorded in Srinagar?
The minimum temperature recorded in Srinagar is 0.2 degrees Celsius.
How does the cold affect daily life in the region?
Residents adapt by wearing traditional winter clothing and using methods like the Kangri for warmth.
What is Chillai Kalan?
Chillai Kalan is a 40-day period of extreme cold that starts on December 21 and ends on January 30.
