Night temperatures have begun to rise in Kashmir following the end of Chillai Kalan, a 40-day intense winter phase that concluded on Friday. This change signals a shift in weather conditions across the region, offering relief from the traditionally severe cold that characterizes this period.
Officials from the Meteorological Department reported significant temperature increases across several areas of the Kashmir Valley. Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 1.3 degrees Celsius, a notable rise from the previous night’s minus 0.6 degrees. This increase also exceeds the seasonal average by 2.2 degrees, providing welcome warmth for residents.
Many regions experienced above-freezing temperatures during the night. Areas like Konibal recorded 1.0 degrees Celsius, and Pulwama reported 0.1 degrees. Kulgam settled at 1.1 degrees, indicating that most weather stations in the Valley noted temperatures higher than usual for this time of year.
Despite the rise in night temperatures in lower altitude areas, cold conditions persisted in higher elevations. Sonamarg, situated in the Ganderbal district, remained the coldest reported location in Jammu and Kashmir, with temperatures dropping to minus 10.6 degrees Celsius—yet a slight improvement from the preceding night’s minus 11.2 degrees. The popular ski resort area of Gulmarg recorded minus 9 degrees, while Pahalgam in South Kashmir registered minus 5.3 degrees Celsius.
Other notable stations included Qazigund at minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, Kokernag at minus 0.6 degrees, and Kupwara at minus 3.1 degrees, indicating a general trend of warmer nightly temperatures in the region.
The period of Chillai Kalan, which commenced on December 21, is traditionally recognized as the coldest phase of winter in Kashmir. It is often accompanied by heavy snowfall, particularly in higher altitudes. With Chillai Kalan’s conclusion, the Valley transitions into Chillai Khurd, a subsequent 20-day period of relatively milder cold, to be followed shortly by the 10-day Chillai Bachha.
Looking ahead, the Meteorological Department anticipates the arrival of a fresh western disturbance beginning Sunday, suggesting that the Valley may brace for another round of wet weather. This forecast casts a spotlight on residents and farmers alike, as they prepare for any potential impacts this may bring.
