Srinagar in J&K Experiences Record Low of Minus 5.4 Degrees Celsius, Coldest This Season
Click to start listening
Srinagar, Dec 10 (NationPress) A severe cold spell has enveloped the Kashmir Valley, with the city of Srinagar marking the season's coldest temperature at minus 5.4 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
Officials from the Meteorological (MeT) Department reported that the minimum temperature plummeted to minus 5.4 degrees Celsius, the lowest recorded temperature for this season.
Gulmarg experienced even colder conditions, recording minus 9 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam saw a low of minus 8.6 degrees Celsius.
A beautiful blanket of snow has transformed Gulmarg, attracting tourists eager to enjoy the abundant snowfall in this picturesque meadow.
In other areas, Jammu City reported a minimum of 5.4 degrees Celsius, Katra 5.6 degrees Celsius, Batote 1 degree Celsius, Banihal minus 2.2 degrees Celsius, and Bhaderwah minus 3.4 degrees Celsius.
Water taps across Srinagar and other towns in the Valley have frozen, prompting residents to light small fires around them to thaw the pipes in the morning.
The icy morning frost and slick roads have deterred morning walkers from their routines, resulting in a noticeable decline in pedestrians and vehicles on the streets.
The harsh winter phase known locally as ‘Chillai Kalan’, lasting 40 days, commences annually on December 21 and concludes on January 30.
During this frigid period, the gap between maximum and minimum temperatures decreases, intensifying the cold.
Traditionally, Kashmiris rely on a Kangri, a fire pot encased in a willow basket, for immediate warmth during Chillai Kalan. The Kangri is typically placed beneath the long woolen overgarment called the Pheran, providing unmatched warmth compared to modern heating solutions that depend on electricity—often scarce in the economically challenged J&K.
Additionally, Kashmiris prepare for the winter by drying vegetables like tomatoes, brinjals, and pumpkins to sustain themselves during the cold months when fresh produce is limited.
