Gulmarg, a popular ski resort, experienced its coldest night of the season with the temperature dropping to minus 8.8 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 3.6 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam registered a low of minus 4.8 degrees Celsius.
Jammu city saw a minimum temperature of 8.7 degrees Celsius, while Katra town recorded 5.6 degrees Celsius. Batote experienced 2.1 degrees Celsius, Batote minus 1.3 degrees Celsius, and Bhaderwah minus 2.1 degrees Celsius as the lowest temperatures of the night.
Despite fresh snowfall in Gulmarg and Sonamarg, a significant snowfall has eluded the Valley thus far. The Meteorological Department forecasts dry weather until January 20, dimming hopes for substantial snowfall during the ongoing 40-day Chillai Kalan period.
If Chillai Kalan passes without significant snowfall, the summer months in Jammu and Kashmir may face reduced water levels in rivers, streams, and lakes. The absence of heavy snowfall has raised concerns among farmers and orchardists, as the water bodies crucial for agriculture rely on snow replenishment during this period.
Doctors are advising caution, particularly for individuals with heart and lung conditions, due to the cold and dry weather. Vulnerable individuals are urged to stay indoors until temperatures improve. A recent weak Western Disturbance led to snowfall in Kashmir’s upper regions and light rain in the plains.
