NewKerala.com

J&K Higher Reaches See Snow, Valley Plains Await Major Snowfall Forecast

While higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir received light snowfall, the plains of the Valley missed out on the season's first snow. The Meteorological Department forecasts moderate to heavy snowfall across the Valley, including the plains, from January 22 to 24 due to an active Western Disturbance. The ongoing dry spell during the harsh winter period of Chillai Kalan, ending January 30, threatens water reservoirs that sustain the region's rivers and lakes. Temperatures across the region remain low, with Srinagar recording minus 3.2°C.

Key Points: J&K Snowfall Forecast: Valley Plains Miss Snow, Heavy Fall Expected

  • Higher reaches get light snow
  • Plains miss season's first snowfall
  • Moderate to heavy snow forecast Jan 22-24
  • Dry Chillai Kalan could spell disaster for water bodies
  • Farmers advised to suspend activities
2 min read

J&K: Higher reaches record light snowfall, Valley plains again miss rain, snow

Higher reaches of Jammu & Kashmir record light snowfall while plains miss out. Weather officials forecast moderate to heavy snow in Valley from Jan 22-24.

"Valley, including the plains, will receive moderate to heavy snowfall during this period. - Meteorological Department officials"

Srinagar, Jan 17

While higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir received light snowfall, the plains of the Valley missed the season's first snowfall on Saturday.

Weather officials have forecast moderate to heavy snowfall in the Valley between January 22 and 24.

According to Meteorological Department officials, light to moderate snowfall occurred in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir during the last 12 hours, while the plains did not record any, much to the disappointment of residents waiting for this season's first snowfall.

Due to a Western Disturbance becoming active over Jammu and Kashmir from the afternoon of January 22 to January 24, widespread rain/snow is expected.

"Valley, including the plains, will receive moderate to heavy snowfall during this period," the Meteorological Department officials said.

While farmers have been advised to suspend farming activities during this period, travellers have been asked to plan their travel accordingly.

Srinagar city and all other towns in the Valley have yet to witness snowfall this winter so far, as the 40-day-long period of harsh winter cold 'Chillai Kalan' is ending on January 30.

No heavy snowfall during the Chillai Kalan would spell disaster as all water bodies in Jammu and Kashmir depend on this snowfall to replenish the perennial water reservoirs that sustain rivers, streams, lakes, wells and springs during the summer months.

All major water bodies, including the Dal Lake in Srinagar city, were partially frozen, making rowing of boats difficult for fishermen and those carrying tourists on a tour of the waterbody.

Elders living in the Valley have not witnessed any Chillai Kalans in their lives that were dry in the plain areas.

Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 3.2 degrees Celsius, while Gulmarg (minus 4.2 degrees Celsius) and Pahalgam (minus 2.6 degrees Celsius).

Jammu city registered the minimum temperature of 4.6 degrees Celsius, Katra town 7.4 degrees Celsius, Batote 5.7 degrees Celsius, Banihal 0.6 degrees Celsius and Bhaderwah 1.5 degrees Celsius.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
I was in Srinagar last week and the locals were really hoping for snow. The Dal Lake was partially frozen, which was beautiful but also concerning. Climate change is affecting patterns everywhere.
R
Rohit P
The article mentions elders have never seen a dry Chillai Kalan. That says it all. This isn't normal. We need serious conversations about environmental conservation in the Himalayas.
P
Priya S
My family in Jammu says it's unusually cold but dry. The forecast for moderate to heavy snow next week is a relief. Fingers crossed it happens! The tourism and agriculture sectors need it badly.
M
Michael C
While the focus is on snow, let's not forget the people. Travel advisories are important. Hope everyone stays safe and warm, especially those whose livelihoods are affected by the frozen lakes and delayed snowfall.
K
Kavya N
A respectful criticism: The article could have included more on what steps, if any, the administration is taking for long-term water management if snowfall patterns continue to change. It's a crucial issue for national security too.
V
Vikram M
Minus 3.2 in Srinagar and no snow! That's a dry cold which feels much worse. At least snowfall insulates the ground. Hoping Gulmarg and Pahalgam get

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50