Is Kashmir Experiencing Its Coldest Night? Srinagar Records Minus 3.2 Degrees
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Synopsis
As Srinagar faces its coldest night yet at minus 3.2 degrees Celsius, the MET department warns of further temperature declines. With the onset of winter, residents adapt by wearing traditional attire and preparing for the harsh 'Chillai Kalan'. What does this mean for daily life in the Valley? Read on to find out more.
Key Takeaways
- Srinagar experiences record cold at minus 3.2 degrees Celsius.
- Authorities are preparing for the winter by announcing school vacations.
- Traditional winter clothing like the Pheran is commonly worn.
- The harsh winter period Chillai Kalan will start soon.
- Residents adapt to extreme cold with unique cultural practices.
Srinagar, Nov 24 (NationPress) The Valley has plunged into colder conditions, with Srinagar experiencing its chilliest night yet at minus 3.2 degrees Celsius on Monday. The MET department predicts that temperatures will continue to decline in the upcoming days.
“Srinagar has recorded a nighttime low of minus 3.2 degrees celsius, marking the coldest night of the season thus far,” stated a representative from the MET department.
“Further drops in nighttime temperatures are anticipated in the coming days. Today, Gulmarg registered minus 1.9 degrees, while Pahalgam noted minus 4 degrees,” officials confirmed.
In other areas, Jammu city logged 10, Katra 9.2, Batote 5.5, Banihal minus 1.2, and Bhaderwah 0.5 degrees as their minimum temperatures.
As temperatures dipped below freezing, a weak winter sun attempted to rise through a hazy sky in the Valley, providing little warmth for early morning walkers.
The cold wind sweeping through the Valley from snow-capped mountains has made it tough for schoolchildren who wait for buses in the biting cold.
In response to the dropping temperatures, authorities have announced that winter vacations for students up to the eighth standard will commence on December 1.
Residents have begun donning the traditional winter garment of Kashmir known as the ‘Pheran’ (a tweed over garment). In rural regions, and in many urban areas, people are seen using an earthen firepot made of willow wicker, filled with glowing charcoal, to keep warm beneath their Pheran.
The harsh winter period known as ‘Chillai Kalan’ will begin on December 21 and last until January 30 each year.
During this time of severe cold, water bodies in the Valley freeze over, and people often struggle to de-freeze their taps each morning. The temperature difference between maximum and minimum narrows significantly during Chillai Kalan, with nighttime lows dropping to between minus 5 and minus 7 degrees, while daytime temperatures seldom reach double digits.
Point of View
It is crucial to keep the public informed about significant weather changes affecting daily life in Kashmir. The extreme cold and its implications for residents highlight the resilience of local communities as they adapt to harsh winter conditions. The 'Chillai Kalan' season serves as a reminder of the region's unique cultural practices and the challenges that come with extreme weather.
NationPress
24/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current temperature in Srinagar?
Srinagar has recorded a minimum temperature of minus 3.2 degrees Celsius.
What traditional attire do people wear during winter in Kashmir?
Residents often wear the Pheran, a traditional tweed over garment, to keep warm in the winter.
When does the Chillai Kalan period start?
The Chillai Kalan period begins on December 21 and lasts until January 30.
Why are schools closing for winter vacation?
Authorities have decided to close schools for winter vacation starting on December 1 due to the dropping temperatures.
How do residents cope with freezing temperatures?
Many residents use earthen firepots filled with charcoal to stay warm while wearing their Pherans.
