Srinagar, Dec 29: Despite the biting cold gripping the Kashmir Valley, dense fog persists, causing widespread visibility issues and traffic disruptions. According to the meteorological department, Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, experienced a bone-chilling low of minus 3.3°C, 1.2°C below the seasonal average.
The blanket of fog has not spared other regions, with Qazigund, Pahalgam, Kokernag, Kupwara, and Gulmarg all grappling with varying degrees of reduced visibility. Notably, Gulmarg’s temperature was recorded at minus 2.5°C, 3.7°C above normal for the renowned skiing destination.
As the Kashmir valley endures the ‘Chillai-Kalan,’ a 40-day period of intense winter lasting until January 30, the weatherman predicts generally dry conditions with moderate to dense fog over specific districts until the end of December. However, a slight shift is expected, with the possibility of light snow over higher reaches on the evening of December 31.
Looking ahead, the meteorological department anticipates dry weather from January 1-2, followed by generally cloudy conditions with light rain/snow in isolated areas on January 3-4. The cold wave and fog continue to challenge normal life, emphasizing the need for residents to brace for persistent wintry conditions in the coming days.
