Kashmir valley has been gripped under cold wave conditions, with sub zero temperatures over most parts. All the popular destinations like Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam have been reeling under sub zero temperatures during this month. Srinagar has recorded minimum temperature of -1.6°C today morning, the lowest of this season so far.
The temperature is hovering between -1°C and -2°C for the last 4 days. Pahalgam has registered a lowest temperature of -3.7°C and Gulmarg earlier dropped to -3°C, below normal by about 2-3°C. Gulmarg and Pahalgam have remained sub zero throughout this month except on 2 days.
Despite an early snowfall in the higher reaches, there is no significant rain and snow in the popular resorts of Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Srinagar and Gulmarg have recorded 3mm and 14mm of rainfall against their monthly normal of 28.3mm and 52.8mm respectively.
There is no likelihood of any significant snowfall till end of the month. Weak western disturbance may cause little weather activity in the higher reaches on 24th and 29thNovember. Accordingly, cold wave conditions will continue to sweep the region, almost unabatedly till month end.
Kashmir’s harshest period of winter is marked between 21stDec and 31st Jan. This 40days of biting cold is popularly termed as ‘Chillai Kalan’. The normal life during this period moves with slow pace and is dependent on whims of weather. However, this period attracts lot of tourists, with the intentions of viewing snowfall in the valley. This is followed by another spell of freezing winter named ‘Chillai Khurd’, lasting for 20days. The last in the list is ‘Chillai Bache’ (small cold) extended for the next 10days.
