SRINAGAR, Jan 3: Jammu and Kashmir shivered under intense cold on Saturday as minimum temperatures fell below freezing across the Valley, with water taps and puddles freezing in Srinagar and other towns.
Srinagar recorded a minimum of -1.5°C, while Gulmarg dipped to -6.5°C and Pahalgam to -5.2°C. Other areas included Jammu at 7.9°C, Katra 6.6°C, Batote 4.2°C, Banihal 2.7°C, and Bhaderwah at -1.5°C.
Water taps in Srinagar and surrounding towns froze overnight, and water puddles on roads solidified due to the severe cold. Cardiologists have cautioned residents, particularly those with heart conditions, to avoid venturing out in the mornings and to bundle up in multiple layers during the day. Experts note that the incidence of heart attacks can rise by roughly 20% during winter months in Kashmir due to higher blood pressure and increased platelet activity.
Despite the ongoing Chillai Kalan, the 40-day period of harsh winter cold that began on December 21, the Valley has yet to witness significant snowfall, and plains are still waiting for the season’s first snow. Weather forecasts predict cold, cloudy, and generally dry conditions across Jammu and Kashmir until January 20.
Officials have warned that if major snowfall does not occur before Chillai Kalan ends on January 30, water reservoirs in the mountains may not be replenished, leading to potential water shortages in rivers, streams, springs, lakes, and wells during the hot summer months. The region has already faced a 39% rainfall deficit this winter.