Jammu experienced a maximum temperature of 7.4 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, significantly lower than the normal levels and the lowest in the Kashmir Valley for the day. This marks the fourth lowest temperature ever recorded in Jammu, according to the local Met Department Director Mukhtar Ahmad. In comparison, Srinagar saw a maximum of 13.3 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam 10.6, and Gulmarg 8.2 degrees Celsius.
Residents in Jammu city are facing an intense cold spell, with the minimum temperature dropping to 4 degrees Celsius. The gap between the minimum and maximum temperatures is now just over 3 degrees, leading to unprecedented cold conditions in January. Many locals are resorting to traditional methods like wearing ‘pheran’ and using ‘kangri’ to stay warm.
While Jammu city remained covered in fog, Srinagar enjoyed bright sunshine throughout the day, attracting people to bask in the winter sun. Nights in the Valley have been particularly cold due to clear skies, raising concerns over the absence of the usual snowfall during the ‘Chillai Kalan’ period. This period traditionally brings heavy snowfall, crucial for replenishing water reservoirs in the mountains.
Despite a feeble Western Disturbance expected on January 16, it may not bring snowfall to the plains of the Valley. However, hopes are pinned on potential snowfall between January 20 and 24. The Srinagar-Leh highway remaining open indicates a lack of heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir.
