Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded its coldest night of the season on Wednesday as the minimum temperature dropped to minus 1.6 degrees Celsius, the Meteorological (MeT) Department said.
Officials noted that the temperature dipped below the freezing point for the first time this season, marking the onset of the winter chill in the Valley.
Early Winter Chill Grips the Valley
The sharp drop in temperature led to the formation of thin ice sheets on water puddles and car windshields in several parts of Srinagar and nearby areas. Residents woke up to foggy conditions and frost-covered streets, signaling the approach of the harsh winter phase known locally as Chillai Kalan.
The MeT Department attributed the temperature drop to clear night skies and dry weather conditions, which typically allow faster cooling during the late hours.
“Srinagar recorded a minimum of minus 1.6°C, which is the lowest so far this season. Temperatures are expected to dip further in the coming days,”
said an official from the MeT office.
Other Districts Also Record Sub-Zero Temperatures
Apart from Srinagar, several other regions in Kashmir witnessed similar cold conditions:
Pahalgam (Anantnag District): Minus 3.8°C
Gulmarg (Baramulla District): Minus 2.5°C
Kupwara: Minus 1.3°C
Qazigund: Minus 0.9°C
The mercury levels are expected to fall further as cold northwesterly winds and clear skies continue to dominate the region.
Tourism and Local Impact
The drop in temperature comes as a boost to Kashmir’s winter tourism, with early-season snow expected to attract tourists to destinations like Gulmarg and Sonmarg in the coming weeks.
Local residents, however, have started bracing for the seasonal hardships associated with the cold — including frozen water pipes, low morning visibility, and increased power demand.
The Power Development Department (PDD) has issued advisories for efficient electricity usage, while authorities in Srinagar Municipal Corporation have initiated de-icing and heating measures in public spaces.
Weather Outlook
According to the MeT forecast, dry weather will persist for the next 3–4 days, with night temperatures likely to drop further.
Light snowfall is predicted in the higher reaches of north and south Kashmir toward the end of the week, while plains will continue to experience cold and dry conditions.
The minimum temperature is expected to hover between minus 2°C and minus 3°C in Srinagar by the weekend.
What Is Chillai Kalan?
Chillai Kalan refers to the 40-day peak winter period in Kashmir, beginning in late December, known for the region’s coldest temperatures and heavy snowfall. The current temperature drop signals the onset of pre-winter conditions, which typically intensify in the coming weeks.
Conclusion
As Srinagar witnesses its coldest night so far this season, residents are preparing for the deep winter phase that defines Kashmir’s climate. With sub-zero temperatures already gripping parts of the Valley, authorities are urging citizens to take precautionary measures and ensure adequate heating and water insulation in homes.
The chill, however, has also sparked optimism among locals and tourism operators, marking the start of Kashmir’s scenic winter season.
FAQs
Q1. What was the temperature in Srinagar today?
A: Srinagar recorded minus 1.6°C, the coldest temperature of the season so far.
Q2. Which place in Kashmir was the coldest?
A: Pahalgam was the coldest at minus 3.8°C.
Q3. What caused the temperature drop?
A: Clear skies and dry air led to rapid cooling during the night.
Q4. When does Chillai Kalan begin in Kashmir?
A: It begins around December 21 and lasts for 40 days.
Q5. Is snowfall expected soon?
A: Light snowfall is possible in higher altitudes later this week.
Published on : 12th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit : Reported by Indo-Asian News Service | NDTV