Kashmir, Jan 10 : Valley experienced a severe cold snap on Saturday, with minimum temperatures remaining several degrees below freezing and the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar partially frozen. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 5.7°C, slightly warmer than the previous night’s minus 6°C, while the city’s maximum temperature on Friday reached 10.8°C, narrowing the daily temperature range.
The partial freezing of Dal Lake created difficulties for local boatmen, and water taps, road puddles, and shallow water bodies across the Valley also froze due to the sub-zero nights.
The Meteorological Department has forecast generally cold and dry weather until January 20, with only isolated snow or rain in higher reaches. Officials have raised concerns as the ongoing 40-day Chillai Kalan critical for replenishing water reservoirs for agriculture, horticulture, and drinking water has yet to deliver significant snowfall in the plains. Chillai Kalan will continue until January 30, and snowfall in February or March is unlikely to compensate for the current deficit.
Other minimum temperatures reported on Saturday include minus 6.8°C in Gulmarg, minus 7.8°C in Pahalgam, 3.6°C in Jammu, 5.3°C in Katra, 1.3°C in Batote, minus 0.4°C in Banihal, and minus 2.8°C in Bhaderwah.
Hospitals and clinics have seen a surge in patients with chest and heart-related ailments due to the cold, dry conditions. Authorities have advised residents with pre-existing cardiopulmonary conditions to exercise extra caution during this harsh winter period.