Srinagar, the largest city in Jammu and Kashmir, experienced the chilliest night of the season on Wednesday. City officials reported that the temperature fell to ‑1.6 °C, while the nearby hill station of Pahalgam saw an even lower ‑3.8 °C. Srinagar’s drop tops up the world of record lows for this winter.
“We expected a dip, and it came fast – ‑1.6 °C is the lowest in Srinagar for this season,” said a senior meteorological officer. He added that temperatures might slide further as the cold wave sweeps through the valley.
In the same breath, the palace town of Gulmarg recorded a frosty ‑1 °C, Pahalgam reached ‑3.8 °C and the bustling capital of Jammu tasted 10 °C at its lowest point. Other towns followed: Katra at 9 °C, Batote at 4.5 °C and Bhaderwah just 1.2 °C.
Residents scarred the streets in woollens. People layer on the traditional tweed overgarment known as the “Pheran.” Inside, a willow wicker basket holds a small pot of live charcoal called the “Kangri.” The Kangri keeps the wearer warm during the biting nights.
Health officials urge caution for those with chest problems, the elderly and children. “Stay out of the cold for too long,” warned a local doctor. “Cold air can trigger breathing issues in those with weaker immunity.”
Relatives and friends also keep an eye on the 40‑day stretch called “Chillai Kalan.” Beginning on December 21 and ending on January 30, this period sees most ponds and rivers partly or fully freeze, depending on severity.
During the freeze, tap water turns solid. Homeowners keep small fires burning to thaw their taps. Drivers and pedestrians also face slick roads, forcing them to watch their step to avoid accidents.
In extreme winter, daytime highs rarely cross 7 °C. The valley’s cold snaps remain a test of community resilience and adaptation to chill.
Source: ianslive
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