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

Srinagar, Jan 17 (IANS) 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

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