SUHAIL KHAN
SRINAGAR, Dec 27: Snowfall blanketed various parts of Kashmir on Friday afternoon, ending a four-month dry spell and bringing some relief from the bone-chilling cold in the valley.
A senior official from the meteorological department informed Kashmir Despatch that Srinagar and other areas of the Kashmir valley experienced their first snowfall of the season, marking the conclusion of a prolonged dry period.
The official noted that snowfall was also reported in parts of Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar, while rains affected the plains of Jammu district.
Srinagar recorded a low of minus 7.3 degrees Celsius, with minimum temperatures falling across most locations in Kashmir as the valley continued to endure intense cold conditions. This has led to the freezing of several water bodies and water supply lines in many areas.
The official predicted a dip of two to three degrees in minimum temperatures in Kashmir over the next two days.
Aside from Gulmarg, night temperatures have plummeted across all other weather stations in the Kashmir valley.
Currently under the grip of “Chillai-Kalan,” the harshest winter period lasting 40 days beginning December 21, the Kashmir valley is experiencing below-normal maximum and minimum temperatures for this time of year, the official further mentioned.
He also stated that Jammu and Kashmir has recorded an 81 percent rainfall deficit over the past three months while grappling with a persistent cold wave. Between October 1 and December 25, 2024, the Union Territory received only 21.0 mm of rainfall compared to the normal 110.0 mm, representing an 81 percent deficit.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecasted scattered snowfall across Kashmir and widespread rains in Jammu, along with snowfall in the upper reaches of the Chenab Valley. The department indicated that this weather pattern would continue until Saturday afternoon.
Meanwhile, the fresh snowfall resulted in the closure of the Mughal road, connecting the Kashmir Valley with Rajouri and Poonch districts via Shopian. The Sinthan-Kishtwar road was also shut due to slippery conditions and risk of landslides.
Reports reaching Kashmir Despatch indicate that tourists were seen enjoying the snowflakes on the popular Boulevard Road along the banks of Dal Lake, capturing memorable photographs in front of luxurious houseboats. Following the snowfall, vehicles were moving slowly on the highways as well as on all connecting roads.
Additionally, the season’s first major snowfall in Kashmir on Friday led to significant disruptions at the Srinagar International Airport, resulting in the cancellation of all flights.
The Director of Srinagar Airport stated in a message to Kashmir Despatch that, while operations had been smooth earlier, snow accumulation affected evening flights. “So far, five flights have been canceled. I urge passengers to check the status, as the ongoing snowfall is impacting operations,” he said.
Airport officials explained that snow buildup on the runway, combined with dense cloud cover, rendered conditions unsafe for aircraft operations. “The safety of passengers and crew remains our top priority, and operations are heavily dependent on weather conditions,” an airport spokesperson said in a statement to Kashmir Despatch.
Earlier in the day, a railway official informed Kashmir Despatch that following fresh snowfall, train service between Budgam and Banihal experienced delays; however, services were later restored and are now functioning normally.
Meanwhile, police across the districts of Kashmir have issued helpline numbers for the general public in light of the fresh snowfall. From Sopore to Kupwara to Awantipora, emergency helpline services have been established to assist the public in seeking help during emergencies arising from inclement weather.
In case of any emergency, the general public can contact the following cell numbers, available 24/7.
The district police are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public during these challenging weather conditions. Please do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
