Srinagar shivered at a record low of minus 8.5 degrees Celsius on Friday night, marking the coldest December night in over 50 years as the 40-day harsh winter period, Chillai Kalan, commenced in the Kashmir Valley. The temperature plunged from minus 6.2 degrees recorded the previous night, with other parts of the valley also experiencing freezing conditions. The Indian Meteorological Department reported that the entire region is bracing for intensified cold waves in the coming weeks.

Chillai Kalan, a period known for its icy grip and heavy snowfall, disrupts daily life in Kashmir as temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Residents have started stockpiling essentials, and authorities have initiated measures to ensure adequate heating and uninterrupted power supply. The harsh weather impacts water supplies as taps and pipelines freeze, adding to the challenges faced by people during this season. Despite the difficulties, this period is crucial for replenishing the region’s water resources, as snowfall during Chillai Kalan sustains the valley’s rivers and reservoirs.

Meteorologists predict that the cold wave will persist, with temperatures in Srinagar and other regions likely to remain several degrees below freezing. The bone-chilling weather also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, as extreme weather patterns have become increasingly common. Local authorities have urged residents to take precautions to stay safe during the severe cold and advised tourists to be prepared for the extreme weather conditions while visiting the valley.