Due to clear night skies, minimum temperatures dropped across Jammu and Kashmir on Friday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast cloudy but largely dry weather for the next 48 hours.
Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 1 degree Celsius, while Gulmarg registered minus 7 degrees and Pahalgam minus 6.2 degrees Celsius.
In the Jammu region, Jammu city recorded a minimum of 6 degrees Celsius, Katra 6.5 degrees, Batote 2.8 degrees, Banihal minus 1.1 degrees and Bhaderwah minus 2.8 degrees Celsius.
The IMD has predicted generally dry weather from January 2 to January 5.
Earth scientists have warned that the absence of heavy snowfall during the Chillai Kalan period could lead to serious consequences during the summer months.
Explaining the concern, a scientist said, “When there is a foot of snow on the ground in the plains, it is reasonable to expect five to seven feet of snow in the higher reaches. If places like Gulmarg and Sonamarg receive less than a foot of snow, perennial water reservoirs in the higher reaches will not be adequately replenished.”
For environmental reasons, locals are praying for a plentiful snowfall this winter. The IMD has indicated that dry weather is likely to persist even as the Chillai Kalan period ends on January 30.
— IANS
