Due to heavy cloud cover overnight, the night temperatures in the Kashmir Valley increased above freezing on Monday, except in Gulmarg. The minimum temperature in Srinagar was 3 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam recorded 0.2 degrees Celsius.
In other areas, Jammu city experienced 9.1 degrees Celsius, Katra town 9.2, Batote 7.3, Banihal 4.8, and Bhaderwah 3.3 degrees. The Meteorological Department has predicted cloudy weather for Monday and Tuesday, with rain/snow expected in many places on December 31 and January 1. Moderate snowfall is likely in the central and northern parts of the Valley during this period.
Travellers and transporters have been advised to adhere to the advisories issued by the Traffic Department and administrative departments. The plains of the Kashmir Valley are eagerly awaiting the season’s first snowfall. The 40-day-long period of severe winter cold, known as ‘Chillai Kalan,’ began on December 21 and will end on January 30.
Major snow accumulation typically occurs during Chillai Kalan, replenishing water reservoirs in the mountains. This snow sustains the rivers, streams, springs, and lakes of J&K during the summer months. The first snowfall is celebrated in Kashmir as it is crucial for water resources. People exchange greetings and hold feasts, enjoying local dishes like ‘Nadru,’ a fish dish cooked with tomatoes, radish slices, and lotus stems.
