Chillai Kalan Kicks Off: Srinagar Freezes In Coldest December Night In 50 Years

Let’s talk about Chillai Kalan, the coldest and harshest 40-day winter period that has officially started in Kashmir. This winter spell began on Saturday, and oh boy, it’s already making headlines! Srinagar just had its coldest December night in 50 years, with temperatures plunging to a bone-chilling minus 8.5 degrees Celsius.  

Chillai Kalan Kicks Off: Srinagar Freezes In Coldest December Night In 50 Years

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Record-Breaking Cold in Srinagar  

Can you believe it? Srinagar hasn’t been this cold in December since 1974! Back then, the temperature hit a jaw-dropping minus 10.3 degrees Celsius. The record low for this month, though, is even colder—minus 12.8 degrees Celsius, set way back in 1934.  

On Friday night, the mercury dipped from minus 6.2 degrees to minus 8.5 degrees Celsius. This icy grip has led to the freezing of water bodies, including parts of the beautiful Dal Lake. Even water supply lines in many areas have frozen solid.  

Chilly Weather Across the Valley

It’s not just Srinagar feeling the freeze. Other parts of Kashmir are also shivering. Pahalgam, a popular tourist spot and base camp for the Amarnath Yatra, recorded minus 8.6 degrees Celsius. Gulmarg, the famous ski resort, wasn’t far behind at minus 6.2 degrees Celsius.  

And guess what? A tiny village called Konibal near Pampore took the crown for the coldest spot in the valley with a staggering minus 10.5 degrees Celsius. Other places like Qazigund, Kupwara, and Kokernag also recorded temperatures well below freezing. In fact, Kupwara saw its coldest December since 1998!  

What’s Next?

  

So, what does the weather forecast say? Well, it looks like dry weather will dominate till December 26. But there’s a slight chance of light snowfall in the higher reaches on the night of December 21-22. More snow may come on December 27-28, and the New Year’s Eve might see a snowy welcome in the mountains.  

Why Chillai Kalan is Special

 

Here’s the fun (or frosty?) part about Chillai Kalan: it’s when snowfall is at its peak, and temperatures drop to their lowest. But it doesn’t end on January 31. After this, there’s a 20-day period called Chillai Khurd (small cold) and a 10-day phase known as Chillai Bachha (baby cold). So, the chill sticks around for quite a while!  

As winter deepens its grip, Kashmir transforms into a magical icy wonderland. Whether you love the snow or prefer staying cozy indoors, Chillai Kalan truly makes this season unforgettable. Stay warm, friends!