Kashmir Experiences Cold Wave as Jammu Sees Weather Improvement

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Cold wave returns to Kashmir Valley.
- Srinagar records -3.2°C.
- Jammu sees improved weather.
- MeT forecasts light rain/snow ahead.
- Health advice for vulnerable populations.
Srinagar, Jan 20 (NationPress) Following two days of milder nighttime temperatures, a cold wave has returned to the Kashmir Valley, with Srinagar recording a minimum temperature of -3.2 degrees Celsius on Monday. The Jammu division, however, witnessed a noticeable improvement in weather conditions, where the minimum temperature in Jammu city was 9.6 degrees.
Srinagar reported -3.2 degrees, Gulmarg ski resort noted -5.4 degrees, and Pahalgam recorded -6.4 degrees as the night’s lowest temperatures.
In Jammu city, temperatures were 9.6 degrees, Katra at the Mata Vaishno Devi base camp reached 10.2 degrees, Batote was at 3.9 degrees, Banihal saw 0.7 degrees, and Bhaderwah reported 2 degrees.
A statement from the Meteorological (MeT) department indicated that, “On January 20 and 21, a generally cloudy sky is expected with a chance of light rain/snow in scattered areas. January 22 will see a similar sky with potential for light to moderate rain (in the plains of Jammu) and snow at numerous locations. The higher reaches of Chenab Valley and the Pir Panjal Range may also receive light to moderate snow. On January 23, a generally cloudy sky will prevail with a likelihood of light rain (in the plains of Jammu) and snow in scattered areas.”
“From January 24 to 28, dry weather is anticipated. Between January 29 and 31, a cloudy sky with isolated light rain/snow is expected,” the MeT department added.
The department has issued an advisory urging that “tourists, travelers, and transporters should adhere to the Admin/Traffic advisory.”
The 40-day period known as ‘Chillai Kalan’, marked by severe winter cold, commenced on December 21 and will conclude on January 30, after which weather conditions are expected to improve gradually as spring approaches.
Medical professionals have advised that children and the elderly should avoid prolonged exposure to extreme cold, as it can lead to constriction of blood vessels. Research indicates that such constriction can result in myocardial infarction, leading to heart attacks and heart failure. To shield themselves from intense cold, locals often don loose tweed overgarments known as the ‘Pheran’. Additionally, an earthen firepot, called the ‘Kangri’, filled with ember and placed under the Pheran, provides immediate warmth to the body.