Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD) Kashmir Valley woke up to fresh snowfall today, marking a sharp intensification of the ongoing “Chillai-Kalan,” the harshest period of winter. Popular destinations such as Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and the Zojila axis experienced significant snow accumulation early in the morning.
In the lower plains, Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian, Pulwama, and Baramulla also saw light snowfall, with Srinagar witnessing light snowflakes by midday.
The Meteorological Department forecasts that scattered snow or rain will continue throughout the day, with higher altitudes likely to experience isolated snow over the weekend. Further snowfall is predicted between January 20 and 23, with moderate to heavy snow expected in several parts of the valley, particularly on January 22 and 23.
Overcast conditions have slightly lifted temperatures across the region. Srinagar’s minimum temperature rose to minus 2.5°C, compared to the previous night’s minus 4.8°C. In the north, Gulmarg recorded minus 7°C, while Pahalgam saw a moderate minus 4.2°C, up from minus 8.4°C.
Kashmir is currently in the grip of “Chillai-Kalan,” a 40-day period known for its severe cold and the heaviest snowfall of the year. This bitterly cold phase will end on January 30, giving way to the milder “Chillai-Khurd” and “Chillai-Bachha” phases, which mark a gradual warming trend.
Residents and travelers are urged to stay updated on weather forecasts as the valley braces for continued snowfall and cold conditions in the days ahead (DD)