Kashmir Freezes Under Chillai Kalan, Snowfall Expected in Higher Reaches
The cold grip in Kashmir continues unabatedly as temperatures plummet further, with predictions for scattered snowfall in the elevated regions of Jammu and Kashmir over the next few days. The Meteorological Department has anticipated cloudy skies with intermittent snowfall in higher altitudes through January 20th and 21st. Amid these predictions, tourists and locals are advised to stay updated on travel advisories to ensure safety during transit.
On the chilly morning of January 15th, critical spots in the region registered significantly low temperatures: Srinagar recorded minus 4.8 degrees Celsius, while the popular destinations of Gulmarg and Pahalgam experienced even colder conditions with temperatures dipping to minus 7.4 degrees and minus 8.4 degrees Celsius respectively. Despite this, the plains of Jammu saw an improvement in weather conditions as they basked in morning sunshine, with Jammu City recording a minimum of 6 degrees Celsius.
In the vicinity, the base camp town of Katra observed a minimum temperature of 6.8 degrees Celsius. Other locations like Batote, Banihal, and Bhaderwah experienced freezing conditions at 2.1 degrees, minus 1.5 degrees, and minus 0.7 degrees Celsius, respectively, marking the frosty night temperatures.
The ongoing weather is part of the region’s harshest winter phase, known as ‘Chillai Kalan,’ a 40-day period notorious for intense cold that spans from December 21st to January 30th. As this severe cold spell continues, the Kashmir Valley confronts the harsh reality of freezing temperatures that have engulfed the region for more than three weeks. Essential water supplies like pipes, tanks, and other potable sources freeze overnight, necessitating their defrosting in the mornings for daily use.
The persistent cold wave has also partially iced over local water bodies including lakes, streams, wells, springs, and ponds, posing challenges for local boatmen and fishermen navigating these frozen expanses. Amid these frosty conditions, the residents often resort to traditional warming techniques, such as the use of ‘Pheran,’ a loose tweed garment draping their bodies, and the ‘Kangri,’ an earthen firepot nestled in a willow wicker basket, known for providing warmth during these biting months.
Healthcare professionals have sounded a warning, particularly to vulnerable groups like children and senior citizens, stressing the importance of limiting exposure to such extreme conditions. Prolonged exposure can lead to blood vessel constriction, heightening the risk of myocardial infarction, commonly known as heart attacks. It is crucial for those already suffering from minor heart-related conditions to remain cautious and seek shelter from the severe cold as a preventative measure against adverse health effects.
As Kashmir trudges through the intensity of ‘Chillai Kalan,’ the local communities and visitors are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions against the harsh winter elements. The fusion of tradition, adaptation, and modern advice seems to be the formula prescribed for weathering this challenging period in the heart of winter.
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