Srinagar, 5th Jan. The minimum temperature in Kashmir has slightly increased, providing some relief from the intense cold conditions, officials reported on Friday. However, the night temperature is still below normal for this time of year in most places, settling several degrees below freezing.
The sub-zero temperatures have caused water bodies, including Dal Lake, to freeze over with a thin layer of ice.
On Wednesday night, Srinagar city recorded a minimum temperature of -3 degrees Celsius, compared to -3.8 degrees Celsius the previous night.
Pahalgam and Gulmarg also experienced slightly higher temperatures. Kashmir has been experiencing a prolonged dry spell, with a significant rainfall deficit in December.
While the weather is expected to remain dry until January 7, there is a possibility of light snowfall in isolated areas on January 8-9.
Currently, Kashmir is in the midst of the 40-day harshest winter period known as ‘Chilla-i-Kalan’, which is characterized by cold waves and freezing temperatures. This period will end on January 31, but the cold conditions will continue with ‘Chilla-i-Khurd’ and ‘Chilla-i-Bachha’.
