Kashmir Weather Update: Srinagar continues to freeze under the grip of Chilla-i-Kalan as temperatures settled at a bone-chilling -5.7°C on Saturday, January 10. While the mercury saw a marginal rise from the season’s lowest of -6.0°C recorded the previous night, the cold intensity remains severe. Parts of Dal Lake have frozen, forming a thin layer of ice, while the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has seen improved conditions.
Kashmir Weather Update: Temperature Report:
Dras Freezes at -24.6°C The cold wave is relentless across the Union Territory. Dras, the coldest inhabited place in India, recorded a staggering low of -24.6°C today.
- Srinagar: -5.7°C (Slight improvement from yesterday’s -6.0°C).
- Gulmarg: The famous ski resort recorded -6.8°C (ideal for skiing conditions).
- Shopian: Recorded the lowest in the valley plains at -8.2°C.
- Pahalgam: Settled at -7.8°C.
Impact on Daily Life vs. Tourism
The frozen interiors of Dal Lake have become a major attraction, with tourists flocking to capture the rare sight of shikaras breaking through thin ice. However, for locals, the struggle continues with frozen water pipes in Pulwama and Shopian.
Traffic Update: Jammu-Srinagar Highway (NH-44)
In a relief to travelers, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) is open for TWO-WAY traffic today for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs).
- Advisory: Commuters are advised to cross the Nagrota (Jammu) and Qazigund (Kashmir) checkpoints before the cutoff timings.
- Caution: Heavy Vehicles are advised to move carefully between Nashri and Navyug Tunnel due to potential congestion.
- Mughal Road: Remains CLOSED due to heavy snow accumulation.
Weather Forecast: No Snow Yet?
Unlike earlier predictions, the Meteorological Department (MeT) has updated the forecast.
- Next 5 Days: The weather will remain mainly dry across J&K.
- Next Snowfall: A weak Western Disturbance is now expected around January 16-17, which may bring light snow to higher reaches. The plains are likely to remain dry for now.
Key Highlights:
- Coldest Spot: Dras at -24.6°C; Shopian at -8.2°C.
- Travel: NH-44 Open for Two-Way Traffic (Safe to travel).
- Visual: Dal Lake partially frozen; great for photography.
Conclusion:
The dry cold is expected to continue for another week, which may increase health risks (flu/cold). Locals are advised to keep hydration levels up despite the chill.
