Freezing Temperatures Grip Jammu and Kashmir

As temperatures continue to plummet across Jammu and Kashmir, the Meteorological Department reported chilling conditions sweeping the region. A drop in nighttime temperatures was observed due to clear skies on a Thursday, with Srinagar experiencing a bone-chilling minimum of minus 4.4 degrees Celsius.

The previous day, Wednesday, saw slightly warmer conditions in Srinagar with the temperature touching minus 1 degree Celsius.

In other parts of the region, the temperatures were equally harsh. Gulmarg recorded a frigid minus 9.6 degrees, while Pahalgam dropped to a staggering minus 10.4 degrees Celsius. Jammu city saw a relatively warmer night with a low of 5.5 degrees Celsius, while other towns such as Katra and Batote recorded 6.4 and 3.3 degrees respectively. Meanwhile, Banihal had a low of 3.8 degrees and Bhaderwah recorded a sub-zero minus 0.2 degrees Celsius.

An update from the meteorological office detailed expected weather patterns for the coming days. Mostly dry weather was anticipated between January 9 and 10, punctuated by cloudiness on the evening and night of the 10th. January 11 was predicted to bring general cloudiness with light rain expected over the Jammu plains, while scattered snow was projected in isolated higher elevations of both Jammu and Kashmir divisions. Dry weather conditions were predicted to return from January 12 to 14, with another spell of cloudiness expected between January 15 and 16, alongside light snowfall in isolated and scattered areas.

Authorities issued an advisory warning about possible cold waves in certain areas. Tourists, travelers, and transport operators were urged to heed relevant administrations and traffic advisories.

The ongoing frigid climate is part of a notorious 40-day winter period locally known as ‘Chillai Kalan,’ which began on December 21 and is expected to persist until January 30. This time is marked by extreme cold, leading to the partial freezing of lakes, streams, springs, wells, and ponds throughout Kashmir. The mornings are notably brisk, and along with dense fog and frost, they pose significant hazards for both pedestrians and vehicles traveling on the roads.

Medical professionals have raised alerts regarding the health risks posed by such low temperatures. They particularly caution the elderly and young children against extended exposure to the cold, citing dangers such as hypothermia. Medical specialists point out that hypothermia triggers the constriction of blood vessels, which can result in myocardial infarction. This condition increases the likelihood of heart attacks and heart failure. Alarm is heightened by global reports indicating that approximately half a million people succumb to cardiac issues each winter.

All residents and travelers in the region are advised to exercise caution during this cold spell, staying warm indoors when possible and minimizing outdoor activities without adequate protection against the cold.