As the wintry embrace tightens its grip on the enchanting landscapes of Kashmir, the conclusion of the first 19 days of Chillai-Kalan has unfolded an unusual meteorological scenario across the Valley. In a rare turn of events, this 40-day-long harshest winter phase has drawn to a close with a notable absence of precipitation, marking a remarkable occurrence as reported by the local Meteorological department. This dry spell stands out as the first of its kind in five years, encompassing both December and January without a trace of wet weather. Chillai-Kalan, which commenced its icy journey on December 21, 2023, arrived on a dry note, presenting an atypical absence of substantial snowfall across the Valley during this crucial period. With its scheduled conclusion on January 31, the Valley anticipates the subsequent Chillai-Khurd, a 20-day period from January 31 to February 19, followed by Chillai-Bachha, a 10-day phase spanning from February 20 to March 2. The term “Chillai Kalan,” hailing from Persian origins, translates to “Major Cold.” Despite the historical significance of this phase, the Valley has found itself in the midst of an unprecedented dry spell in its initial 19 days. This deviation from the norm, however, is not entirely unfamiliar to Kashmir, as highlighted by Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological department. Dr Ahmad pointed out that similar dry spells occurred in December 2018 and 2022, offering a historical perspective that tempers the novelty of the current conditions. The Meteorological department projects that this dry spell is likely to persist until January 15, encompassing the first 26 days of Chillai-Kalan. The forthcoming weather forecast hints at generally cloudy conditions across plains, with a slight possibility of very light rain in specific areas of the Jammu division and minimal snowfall in isolated higher reaches of Kashmir. Dr Ahmad reassures the public that dry spells are not unprecedented in Kashmir’s weather history, underlining that the ongoing pattern is part of the region’s climatic variability. Looking forward, the weather is expected to remain dry until mid-January, with no significant weather activity on the horizon. Despite the absence of precipitation, temperatures in Kashmir continue to plummet, with Srinagar, the summer capital, recording a bone-chilling low of minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. Other regions, including Qazigund, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Kupwara, and Kokernag, are also gripped by sub-zero temperatures, underscoring the severity of this winter season. As the Valley navigates through this unique weather pattern, residents brace themselves for the remaining days of Chillai-Kalan and the subsequent phases. Hopeful for a return to more typical winter conditions, Kashmir stands resilient in the face of nature’s unexpected twists, embodying the spirit of adaptation that has defined its rich history and culture.
