Srinagar, Jan 16: Minimum temperatures across Kashmir rose on Friday, settling above the seasonal average, while the weather department has predicted a spell of light snowfall in the higher reaches of the Valley, officials said.
The region, however, continued to experience sub-zero night temperatures, except in Kokernag, where the minimum dipped just above the freezing point.
Srinagar recorded a low of minus 1.5 degrees Celsius on Thursday night, up from minus 3.9 degrees Celsius the previous night, and half a degree above the seasonal average, officials said. Pulwama in south Kashmir remained the coldest place in the Valley at minus 4.6 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam recorded a minimum of minus 2.6 degrees Celsius, up from minus 5 degrees Celsius the previous night.
In north Kashmir, Gulmarg in Baramulla district registered a low of minus 2.3 degrees Celsius, 5.5 degrees above the seasonal average. Sonamarg in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district recorded a low of minus 1.6 degrees Celsius. Qazigund, the gateway town of the Valley, saw the mercury settle at minus 1.6 degrees Celsius. Kokernag recorded 0.2 degrees Celsius, while Kupwara recorded minus 1.4 degrees Celsius.
The Kashmir Valley is currently in the midst of ‘Chilla-i-Kalan’, the 40-day harshest winter period during which night temperatures frequently plunge several degrees below freezing and chances of snowfall are highest. The period began on December 21, 2025, and will end on January 30, followed by ‘Chilla Khurd’ and ‘Chillai Bachha’.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said a western disturbance is approaching Kashmir, likely affecting weather from Friday afternoon. Under its influence, light snowfall is expected over higher reaches, while the lower regions may experience light rain, the department added.(Agencies)
