The minimum temperature improved across Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, attributed to a night of continuous cloud cover. The Meteorological (MeT) Department said three consecutive Western Disturbances are expected to bring rain and snow to the Union Territory.
Sonam Lotus, Director of the Ladakh MeT Department, told IANS, “Three Western Disturbances are likely to become active over J&K from January 16 to January 24. The first is a feeble Western Disturbance and is presently active over J&K and Ladakh. It is likely to bring some rain or snow in the higher reaches, with a lesser chance of precipitation in the plains.”
“The second Western Disturbance is expected to become active between January 18 and January 20. This may result in rain or snow, though not in any appreciable measure in the plains, as mostly the higher reaches are likely to receive light precipitation under its influence. The third Western Disturbance will be active from the afternoon of January 20 till late January 24. This is going to be a major one, and under its influence, both the higher reaches and the plains of the Valley are most likely to receive moderate to heavy snowfall,” he said.
The forecast has come as a major relief to people in J&K, as Srinagar city and other plain areas in the Valley are yet to receive this season’s first snowfall.
The 40-day period of harsh winter cold, locally known as ‘Chillai Kalan’, began on December 21 and will end on January 30.
With just 14 days of Chillai Kalan remaining, the perennial water reservoirs that sustain water bodies in J&K are yet to be replenished. If Chillai Kalan passes without a few major snowfalls, the region could face one of its worst summers in the coming months.
Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 1.5 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg minus 2.3 and Pahalgam minus 2.6. Jammu city recorded 4.7 degrees Celsius, Katra 8.8, Batote 7.7, Banihal 2.9 and Bhaderwah 2 degrees Celsius.
— IANS
