- विज्ञापन -
Srinagar: Intense cold continues to grip the Valley as the weather office predicts light rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) over the next 24 hours. Officials from the MET department have indicated that light rain is expected in Jammu’s plains while snowfall is likely in the higher elevations of the Valley.
Farmers and orchardists are expressing growing concern over an extended dry spell, which could severely impact both the upcoming Rani crop and apple production for 2025.
Temperatures have plummeted, with Srinagar hitting a low of minus 7.3 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg at minus 6, and Pahalgam at minus 8. In Jammu, temperatures were slightly higher, with Jammu city at 8 degrees Celsius, Katra at 7.4, and other areas like Batote, Banihal, and Bhaderwah recording below freezing temperatures.
The current period known as ‘Chillai Kalan’ marks 40 days of extreme winter, typically characterized by heavy snowfall crucial for recharging J&K’s water reservoirs, which supply rivers, lakes, and streams throughout the summer. A lack of snow this winter risks severe water shortages later in the year.
The severe cold, combined with significant temperature drops during the day, has raised concerns about health risks including frostbite in the elderly and chillblains in children. It is advised that vulnerable populations remain indoors during sub-zero conditions and dress warmly to guard against hypothermia and respiratory issues.
Locals combat the winter chill by wearing a traditional loose tweed garment called the ‘Pheran’ and using a ‘Kangri,’ a heated earthen pot carried in a wicker basket, for immediate warmth.
