Has the Minimum Temperature in J&K's Srinagar Dropped Below Freezing?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Srinagar has recorded its first freezing temperature of the season.
- Gulmarg and Pahalgam also experienced severe cold.
- The weather is expected to remain dry for the next fortnight.
- Health experts advise caution for vulnerable groups.
- Traditional winter clothing is essential for locals.
Srinagar, Nov 10 (NationPress) In a significant weather change, Srinagar has recorded its first drop below the freezing point this season, hitting a chilly -0.1 degrees Celsius on Monday.
Officials from the Meteorological (MeT) Department stated, “This marks the initial instance this season where temperatures have dipped below the freezing threshold in Srinagar.”
Gulmarg experienced even colder conditions at -0.2 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam recorded the lowest temperature at -3.2 degrees Celsius.
According to the MeT department, “The weather is expected to remain dry over the next two weeks, and with clear skies at night, we anticipate further drops in minimum temperatures in the upcoming days.”
Jammu city reported a minimum of 11.5 degrees Celsius, while Katra at the Mata Vaishno Devi basecamp recorded 11 degrees, Batote at 4.6 degrees, and Bhaderwah at 2.2 degrees on the same day.
Cold winds from the snow-covered mountain ranges have made mornings and evenings in Kashmir particularly chilly, prompting locals to bundle up in heavy woolens.
A traditional winter garment known as the ‘Pheran’ is commonly worn by locals in the Valley. As the winter intensifies, an earthen pot filled with charcoal, woven in a willow basket and called the ‘Kangri’, is placed inside the Pheran to combat the biting cold.
The extreme cold period known as ‘Chillai Kalan’ spans 40 days, beginning December 21 and concluding January 30 annually. Throughout this time, numerous water bodies in the Valley either freeze completely or partially.
Health experts, particularly pulmonologists, have warned vulnerable groups, including the elderly and children, to avoid exposure to severe cold, which can lead to serious chest problems and infections during winter. Dr. Naveed Nazir Shah, a prominent pulmonologist, emphasizes that individuals with pre-existing health conditions should take additional precautions against the harsh winter conditions.