Night temperatures across the Kashmir Valley have increased as the 40-day intense winter period, known as Chillai Kalan, concluded on Friday, February 9, 2024. This shift, reported by local officials, has led to a welcome respite from the severe cold typically associated with the winter’s peak.
The Meteorological Department reported significant changes in minimum temperatures, particularly in Srinagar, where the night temperature rose to 1.3 degrees Celsius. This marks an increase from the previous night’s -0.6 degrees Celsius—a temperature that was notably 2.2 degrees above the seasonal average. Such fluctuations indicate a gradual warming trend as the harsh winter phase comes to an end.
Several other regions in the Valley also registered minimum temperatures above the freezing mark. In Konibal, the temperature settled at 1.0 degrees Celsius, while Pulwama recorded 0.1 degrees and Kulgam saw temperatures of 1.1 degrees Celsius. Weather stations across the region reported a consistent trend of above-normal temperatures for this time of the year.
However, cold conditions persisted in higher altitudes. In Sonamarg, located in Ganderbal district, temperatures dropped to -10.6 degrees Celsius, slightly warmer than the previous night’s -11.2 degrees. Other notable cold spots include the ski resort of Gulmarg with temperatures at -9 degrees and Pahalgam registering -5.3 degrees Celsius.
Additional areas recorded the following minimum temperatures: Qazigund at -0.3 degrees Celsius, Kokernag at -0.6 degrees, and Kupwara experiencing -3.1 degrees Celsius. These temperatures underscore the diverse climatic conditions across Kashmir’s varied topography.
The period of Chillai Kalan, which began on December 21, is traditionally the coldest phase of winter in Kashmir, characterized by heavy snowfall, particularly in higher elevations. With its conclusion, the Valley transitions into Chillai Khurd, a 20-day phase known as the small cold, followed by the 10-day Chillai Bachha or baby cold.
Looking ahead, the Meteorological Department has announced a fresh western disturbance expected to reach the region by Sunday. This new weather pattern may bring additional precipitation, marking yet another chapter in Kashmir’s dynamic winter.
