Srinagar, Jan 24 (2026): The snowfall has paused, but a more dangerous phase of Chillai Kalan is set to begin tonight. The Meteorological Department (MeT) has issued an urgent advisory warning that night temperatures across Jammu & Kashmir will drop drastically starting tonight. As cloud cover lifts, radiative cooling will turn wet roads into treacherous skating rinks by morning.
The “Big Freeze” Forecast
MeT officials have warned that the mercury could plunge significantly below the freezing point in all districts tonight (Saturday night to Sunday morning).
- Srinagar: Expected to drop to -4°C to -6°C (A sharp fall from -1.4°C yesterday).
- Gulmarg: Already freezing at -12°C, likely to sustain bone-chilling lows.
- Pahalgam & Qazigund: Predicted to see lows between -8°C and -10°C.
The “Black Ice” Trap
The biggest danger tonight is not just the cold, but the road conditions. The slush created by today’s snow melt will freeze rapidly overnight, forming Black Ice—a thin, transparent layer of ice that is invisible to drivers.
High-Risk Zones
- Highways: The Ramban-Banihal sector on NH-44 (currently under clearance).
- City Routes: The Srinagar-Baramulla Highway and key flyovers in Srinagar City (specifically Jehangir Chowk-Rambagh).
Critical Traffic Advisory
- NH-44 Status: Snow clearance operations were ongoing today. Do not attempt travel tomorrow without first confirming the status from the Traffic Control Unit (TCU), as the road may remain closed or restricted to one-way traffic due to slippery conditions.
- City Commute: Commuters are strictly advised to avoid driving before 9:30 AM tomorrow.
- Safety Tip: If you must travel, reduce speed by 50% and avoid sudden braking. Sudden brakes on black ice will cause immediate, uncontrollable skidding.
Key Highlights: Civic Impact
- Frozen Pipes: Residents in Shopian, Ganderbal, and Srinagar are advised to lag exposed water pipes with insulation or keep taps dripping slightly tonight to prevent bursting.
- Health Warning: Elderly residents and children are at high risk of hypothermia. Use Kangris and heating appliances with proper ventilation to avoid the risk of asphyxiation (Carbon Monoxide poisoning).
FAQ Section
A: It is a transparent coating of ice that blends with the pavement. Unlike white frost, it looks like a “wet road,” tricking drivers into maintaining normal speeds, which often leads to accidents.
A: Winter vacations are currently in effect for the Winter Zone. In the Summer Zone (Jammu), parents should check for delays if heavy fog persists.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: KittoNews Desk
- Edited by: Senior Desk
- Source Transparency: “Forecast based on evening bulletin from MeT Centre Srinagar (Jan 24). Black ice warning verified by Traffic Police advisory.”
- Community Question: “How are you keeping warm tonight? Share your tips for preventing frozen pipes in the comments.”
- Accountability Footer: “Found an error? Email kittonews@gmail.com.”
