Chillai Kalan kicks off in Kashmir: Srinagar records minimum temperature of -8.5ˇăC, marking the coldest night in 50 years
According to the meteorological department, Chillai Kalan has kicked off in Kashmir, with a minimum temperature of -8.5 degrees Celsius recorded on Saturday. This is the lowest recorded temperature since 1974.
Srinagar, Kashmir, experienced its coldest December night on Saturday when the temperature dropped to -8.5 degrees Celsius, in nearly 50 years. According to the meteorological department, the Chillai Kalan, Kashmir's harshest 40-day winter stretch, kicked off on Saturday.
The minimum temperature dropped various levels below the freezing point, and the effects were seen in other parts of the valley too. On Friday night, the temperature reportedly came down to -8.5 degrees Celsius from minus 6.2 degrees Celsius recorded on Thursday night in Srinagar, noted the meteorological department.
Srinagar's lowest-ever minimum temperature recordings
Last, in 1974, Srinagar witnessed the coldest December night when the city recorded a low of minus 10.3 degrees Celsius, and it recorded the third coldest night in 1891.
#WATCH | Srinagar, J&K | The surface of Dal Lake freezes as intensifying coldwave grips Kashmir Valley.
ˇŞ ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2024
As per the IMD, the maximum temperature is 6ˇăC and the minimum is -7ˇăC. pic.twitter.com/xBLI4N58Jh
Srinagar's lowest-ever minimum temperature was recorded on December 13, 1934, when the temperature plummeted to -12.8 degrees Celsius in December. According to the IMD report, the city marked its coldest December night in nearly five decades, and it also ranks as the third coldest December night since 1891.
Famous Dal Lake freezes due to dip in temperature
The intense cold temperature led to the freezing of water bodies, including the famous 'Dal Lake,' and various water supply lines in many areas of the city and parts of the valley. On the other hand, Pahalgam, South KashmirˇŻs tourist resort, recorded a minimum temperature of 6.2 degrees Celsius.
Chillai kalan at its best ?#Kashmir #WINTER pic.twitter.com/hWVdiwnemZ
ˇŞ Owais Bilal (@Owais_Bilal_) December 21, 2024
What is Chillai Kalan and how long does it stay?
Chillai Kalan, also called Chillai-i-Kalan, is the local name given to the 40 days of harsh winter in Kashmir. Chillai Kalan mainly starts from December 21 and stretches to January 29 every year.
The Drang waterfall freezes as 'Chillai-Kalan' begins, bringing Srinagar's coldest night in 50 years at -8.5ˇăC.
ˇŞ Rq Mughal (@rqmughal23) December 21, 2024
Photos by @@basitzargarb pic.twitter.com/wOCoLcHy5l
According to reports, this time, 'Chillai Kalan' will end on January 31 next year, but the cold wave will continue in the valley as it is followed by a 20-day 'Chillai-Khurd' (small cold).
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Sneha is a dedicated writer with a passion for storytelling that enthrals and inspires the readers. With a background in Health and Wellness, she brings a unique perspective to every narrative. As a journalist, she aims to find solutions with authenticity and credibility.
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