Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir is suffering a very harsh and biting cold currently, with observations of record-plummeting temperatures in different parts of the region. Kashmir Valley is the most affected area by this cold spell, which is referred to as Chillai Kalan. The onset of the severe winter season, which will last for 40 days, is what this period denotes.
The mercury level has taken a huge hit with several areas of the valley recording freezing temperatures. As per the report of the Meteorological Department, the minimum temperature recorded for Srinagar on Tuesday was -6.6°C, while it was Kupwara’s turn at -6.2°C. The figures for Pahalgam and Gulmarg dropped even lower, with them being -7.8°C and -7.4°C, respectively. The coldest place in the region was Zojila, where the minimum temperature was a whopping -23.0°C, thank you very much, which makes it even chillier than some spots in Antarctica.
Other regions that are also affecting Kokernag at -6.4°C, Kulgam at -6.8°C, Shopian at -8.8°C, and Lar at -8.3°C. This close temperature range between the minimum and maximum has left an unusually long period of really cold temperatures, allowing many families to cope with the situation after they have been on the run.
The cold wave has grown stronger due to the extreme drop of the minimum temperatures, causing more and more waterbodies, like the inner edges of the famous Dal Lake, to freeze. The weather department has foretold that the cold wave will continue with many areas likely to receive light to moderate snowfall during the week ahead.
Chillai Kalan, which is translated to “major cold,” is a 40-day span that is generally observed from 21 December until 29 January. This timeframe is well-known for its harshness, with it being the time when the bone-chilling temperatures and severe weather really get a grip. The transport department and the health department have issued advisories such as, “Avoid slippery roads.” and “Stay at home if you are elderly or children during peak cold hours.”.
The authorities have recommended the public be careful and observe safety guidelines. “It is very important to stay warm and avoid exposure to the extremes of cold,” stated a Health Department official. “We encourage everyone, but mainly the elderly and children, to stay inside,” he said. “Also, they should avoid travelling in the pull of early mornings and late nights when the cold is at its top.”
With the winter season advancing, the administration stays alert by making sure that all essential services are continued and residents are provided help. The vigour of the cold wave accentuates the urgent need of contingency planning during such extreme weather.
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