Srinagar, Feb 7 : Despite the weather forecast predicting dry conditions until February 17, followed by the likelihood of snow and rain, Kashmir Valley continued to experience cold wave conditions on Wednesday, with minimum temperatures remaining below freezing, officials reported.
According to a meteorological department official, Srinagar recorded a low of minus 2.0°C, slightly higher than the previous night’s minus 2.4°C, yet still below the usual for this time of year by 1.6°C.
Qazigund registered a minimum of minus 3.2°C, down from the previous night’s minus 2.0°C, indicating a deviation of 1.7°C from the norm for this gateway town of Kashmir.
Pahalgam, known for its famous resort in south Kashmir, recorded a low of minus 10.8°C, marginally warmer than the previous night’s minus 11.0°C, yet still significantly below the average by 4.6°C.
Similarly, Kokernag, also located in south Kashmir, saw temperatures drop to minus 4.3°C, compared to the previous night’s minus 2.4°C, reflecting a deviation of 2.3°C from the usual.
In north Kashmir, Kupwara town reported a low of minus 3.3°C, slightly lower than the previous night’s minus 3.4°C, showing a deviation of 1.3°C from the norm.
Gulmarg, renowned for its skiing resort in north Kashmir, recorded a low of minus 10.0°C, indicating a decrease from the previous night’s minus 10.5°C and a deviation of 3.3°C from the usual.
Meanwhile, Jammu reported a minimum of 5.0°C, exhibiting a deviation of 4.5°C from the norm for the winter capital of J&K.
Other regions like Banihal recorded a low of minus 0.3°C, Batote minus 0.4°C, and Bhaderwah minus 2.0°C, according to the official.
Looking ahead, the meteorological official stated that dry weather is anticipated until February 17, with occasional cloudiness towards the evening on February 14. Beyond February 17, from February 18-20, there is a possibility of light snow and rain.
Currently, Kashmir is experiencing the 20-day-long winter period known as ‘Chillai-Khurd,’ following the conclusion of the 40-day harsh winter period known as ‘Chillai-Kalan’ on January 29. This period will be followed by a 10-day period known as ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold), which begins on February 20 and concludes on March 1.(GNC)
