Srinagar : Night temperatures in Kashmir have remained below freezing but are showing a rising trend, indicating the transition from Chillai Kalan, the coldest 40-day winter phase, to Chillai Khurd, which lasts for 20 days.
Meteorological Department on Saturday said that minimum temperatures improved across several locations, although sub-zero conditions persisted in many areas. In Srinagar, the temperature dropped to minus 0.1 degrees Celsius, slightly above the seasonal average. Gulmarg recorded the lowest temperature in the region at minus 6.5 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam saw a rise to minus 2.6 degrees Celsius. The weather forecast predicts generally cloudy conditions with potential light to moderate rain or snowfall, especially in higher altitudes, on January 31 and February 1. For February 2 and 3, similar weather is expected, with scattered precipitation in elevated areas. From February 4 to 6, partly cloudy weather is anticipated, followed by more cloudy conditions with light precipitation on February 7. A dry spell is expected from February 8 to 10. In light of the weather conditions, an advisory has been issued for farmers to halt agricultural activities until February 7. Authorities have also cautioned residents in avalanche-prone areas to exercise caution outdoors. Travelers are advised to check the status of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway before traveling. The Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority has warned of a medium danger level avalanche risk above 2,400 meters in Bandipora district and urged the public to avoid such zones and adhere to official advisories.
