Srinagar Experiences the Coldest Night in 50 Years; Temperature Drops to -8.5°C, Even -10.5°C at Some Places

Srinagar experienced its coldest December night in 50 years, with the temperature plummeting to -8.5°C on Friday night, as per the meteorological department. This marks the harshest winter conditions since 1974, when the city recorded an even colder -10.3°C. The 40-day “Chillai Kalan” period, known for bringing the harshest winter weather in Kashmir, began on Saturday.

Residents of Srinagar and surrounding areas are grappling with freezing conditions. The intense cold has frozen water taps, exacerbating daily hardships for many. “This year, we are witnessing harsher cold compared to the last three to four years,” said Tanvir Ahmad, a resident of uptown Srinagar.

Interestingly, the renowned ski resort Gulmarg recorded a slightly warmer temperature of -6.2°C during the same period, while other areas like Anantnag and Pampore witnessed significantly colder conditions, recording -10.5°C and -10.5°C, respectively. Pahalgam reported -8.6°C.

Across the Valley, all weather stations reported sub-zero temperatures. The MeT department noted that Friday night’s temperature ranks as the third-lowest December temperature in Srinagar’s recorded history. Earlier, -7.9°C on December 31, 1986, and -7.7°C on December 18, 2018, held similar records.

Looking ahead, the MeT office predicts generally dry weather from December 23 to 26, followed by light snow over higher reaches on December 27 and 28. A slight rise in minimum temperatures is expected in the coming days, though colder conditions will likely return by December 26.

As the region braces for more cold nights ahead, residents are reminded to prepare for the extreme winter conditions synonymous with “Chillai Kalan.”