Srinagar, Dec 21: As the first night of Chillai-Kalan began in Kashmir, Srinagar recorded its coldest December night at -8.5°C, marking the start of the harshest winter period in the region. This 40-day period, known for its severe winter conditions, commenced today and will continue until January 31, followed by Chillai-Khurd (small cold) from February 1 to February 19, and Chillai-Bachha (baby cold) from February 20 to March 2.
According to data provided to KNO, other regions in the Valley also recorded frigid temperatures. Anantnag reached a low of -10.5°C, while Shopian and Pulwama saw temperatures of -10.4°C and -10.3°C, respectively. In Kulgam, the minimum temperature settled at -6.8°C.
This marked the coldest December night in over two decades, making it the third-lowest December temperature recorded in the past 133 years, according to Met officials.
Srinagar and other parts of the Kashmir Valley have endured a persistent dry spell over the past three Chillai-Kalan periods. The region has experienced reduced snowfall, disappearing snow cover, and melting glaciers, raising concerns about environmental stability.