Srinagar– As the bone-chilling Chillai Kalan grips Kashmir, the region battles freezing temperatures and an acute electricity crisis, leaving residents bracing for one of the harshest winters in decades.
Record-Breaking Cold Hits Srinagar
Srinagar recorded its coldest December night in over 30 years, with temperatures plunging to a staggering minus 8.5°C. Although a slight respite followed on Sunday with the mercury rising to minus 4.6°C, the relentless cold continues to disrupt daily life across the valley.
The south Kashmir district of Shopian emerged as the coldest location on Sunday, with temperatures nosediving to minus 8.1°C, closely followed by Anantnag at minus 6.6°C and Kulgam at minus 5.8°C.
Temperature Snapshots Across Kashmir
The freezing temperatures have left no district untouched. Here’s a quick roundup of the minimum temperatures recorded on Sunday:
- Srinagar: -4.6°C
- Qazigund: -5.2°C
- Pahalgam: -4.9°C
- Kupwara: -4.2°C
- Gulmarg: -4.6°C
- Sonamarg: -7.0°C
Dry Weather Forecast with Possible Snowfall Ahead
According to the Meteorological Department, Kashmir is expected to experience dry weather until December 30, offering no immediate relief from the icy conditions. However, light snowfall is predicted over the higher reaches of the Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal Range between December 27 and 28, potentially providing a temporary reprieve.
Power Crisis Worsens Winter Woes
The biting cold has been exacerbated by frozen water pipes and erratic electricity supplies, adding to the challenges faced by residents. With heating solutions out of reach for many, Kashmiris are enduring some of the harshest conditions seen in years.
Winter Driving Advisory Issued
In response to icy roads and treacherous conditions, the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) of Kashmir, Qazi Irfan, has issued an advisory to motorists and bikers. Key safety tips include:
- Avoiding unnecessary travel, particularly during mornings and late nights.
- Using winter or all-season tires and keeping vehicles equipped with anti-freeze.
- Maintaining a half-full fuel tank to prevent freezing.
- Carrying emergency kits with essentials like blankets, first aid supplies, and flashlights.
- Driving slowly and avoiding sudden braking to prevent skidding.
Bikers have been urged to use thermal gear and anti-fog visors for additional safety.
Ladakh: Even Colder Than Kashmir
Neighboring Ladakh is also reeling under the icy grip of winter, with Leh recording a minimum of minus 7.4°C and Kargil an even colder minus 8.8°C.
Understanding Chillai Kalan
This 40-day period, which began on December 21, marks the harshest phase of Kashmir’s winter, notorious for sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall. It is followed by the milder Chillai Khurd (20 days) and Chillai Bachha (10 days), continuing the cold wave into February.
Kashmir Awaits Relief
As Kashmir endures the brunt of Chillai Kalan, residents are eagerly waiting for relief in the form of light snowfall and slightly warmer days predicted later this month. For now, the valley remains enveloped in a frosty embrace, a reminder of winter’s raw power and resilience of its people.
By Qamrul Salehin, Editor for NEWS 360
Sourcre: NEWS 360
