Srinagar, Jan 23 (KNS): The bone-chilling cold continues to tighten its grip on Kashmir as Srinagar shivers at a low of minus 5.0°C, 2.7°C below the seasonal norm. The meteorological department forecasts the possibility of a wet spell from January 25 to February 1, adding another layer of challenge to the freezing temperatures.
According to a meteorological department official, Qazigund recorded a minimum of minus 4.8°C, Pahalgam reached minus 6.2°C, and Gulmarg settled at minus 4.0°C. These temperatures, while frigid, present fluctuations against the previous night but still maintain their icy hold.
Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 4.9°C, while Jammu marked 5.0°C, both showing variations from the previous night's readings. The iconic ski resort, Gulmarg, remains notably warmer than usual at minus 4.0°C.
Looking ahead, the weather is expected to remain dry till January 24. However, from January 25-26, the forecast anticipates generally cloudy weather with light snow in isolated higher reaches. Further, from January 27-28, cloudy conditions with light rain/snow over scattered places are likely. The period from January 29-31 is poised for light to moderate rain/snow at many places, with a possibility of scattered precipitation on February 1.
Meanwhile, an Independent Weather Forecaster said that nothing significant is expected. "A minor snow shower can occur at one or two places in higher reaches. (Forecast Confidence = 95%)," he said
About 26th Jan, he said that nothing significant is expected. "A minor spell of snow is expected in a few places in higher reaches. (Forecast Confidence = 80%)," he added. Regarding 27th Jan, he said that nothing significant is expected. Though a couple of models are hinting of a spell of rain/snow in a few areas towards evening/night. (Forecast Confidence = 65%)
"28th Jan, Nothing significant is expected till late afternoon at least. Possibility of commencement of the next spell towards evening or during the late night. (Forecast Confidence = 75%)," he added.
"29th Jan, Possibility of light to moderate rain/snow in some parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Moderate snowfall can occur in some higher reaches. Weather models are not indicating any major spell of snowfall this time in plains, especially for central and south Kashmir plains," he added.
"30th Jan, Nothing significant is expected as per the current conditions. (Forecast Confidence = 80%)," he added.(KNS)