Kashmir’s Dry Spell Set To Break Around December 21

Srinagar, Dec 17: Kashmir’s prolonged dry spell is expected to end around December 21, coinciding with the onset of Chillai-Kalan, the 40-day harshest winter period, officials said on Wednesday.

The local meteorological office has forecast that a western disturbance will affect Jammu and Kashmir during December 21-22. This system is likely to bring moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches and light to moderate rain or snow in the plains of the valley.

Chillai-Kalan, beginning on December 21 and lasting until January 30, typically brings frequent snowfall and sharply dropping temperatures across the valley. So far this winter, the region has remained largely dry, which has contributed to a rise in ailments like coughs and common colds.

Despite the dry spell, sub-zero night temperatures continue across the valley. Srinagar recorded a low of –1.6°C on Tuesday night, slightly higher than Monday’s –1.8°C. Thick fog covered the city and surrounding areas during early hours, especially near water bodies.

Other minimum temperatures recorded included:

Qazigund: –3.0°C

Kupwara: –2.2°C

Kokernag: –0.1°C

Gulmarg: 1.6°C (above freezing)

Pahalgam: –2.8°C

Shopian and Pulwama: –4.4°C, the coldest spots in the valley

Officials advised residents to prepare for colder, wetter conditions as Kashmir’s winter dry spell comes to an end by December 21.