Fresh snowfall blanketed the higher reaches of Jammu & Kashmir on Monday, sending temperatures plummeting across the region. Chilly winds sweeping down from snow-clad mountains further intensified the cold.
Hill stations like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam experienced fresh snowfall, making road travel challenging for visitors. Slippery conditions in Gulmarg and the Botapathri area required extra caution.
Authorities issued a warning, prohibiting vehicles without non-skid chains from accessing Gulmarg from Tangmarg due to the fresh snowfall.
The Mughal Road, connecting Kashmir Valley with the Jammu region, remained closed for traffic, along with the Srinagar-Leh and Bandipora-Gurez roads, which were also inaccessible due to snow.
According to the Meteorological Department, the fresh snowfall led to a significant drop in both maximum and minimum temperatures.
Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of -3.3°C, Gulmarg at -9°C, and Pahalgam at -6.8°C on Monday.
Maximum temperatures on Sunday were 9.6°C in Srinagar, 1°C in Gulmarg, and 7.8°C in Pahalgam.
In Jammu city, the minimum temperature was 6.5°C, while Katra recorded 6°C, Batote -0.5°C, Banihal -4.1°C, and Bhaderwah -3.4°C.
The harsh winter period, known as “Chillai Kalan,” is set to begin on December 21st and continue until January 30th. During this time, extreme cold grips the region, freezing most water bodies and hindering boat travel.
Thick fog and frost often restrict people from venturing out in the mornings. Kashmiris traditionally rely on the “Kangri,” a woven willow wicker fire pot filled with embers, and the “Pheran,” a long tweed overcoat, to stay warm during this challenging period.
