Chilla-i-Kalan: Kashmir enters the harshest 40-day winter period

As the severe grasp of winter tightens its hold on Kashmir, the region prepares to enter the formidable 40-day phase known as Chilla-i-Kalan, which commenced recently. This period, which spans from December 21 to January 31 of the following year, marks the apex of Kashmir's severe winter, when temperatures go down several degrees below freezing across the valley.

Following Chilla-i-Kalan, a 20-day Chillai-Khurd (small cold) persists from January 31 to February 19, succeeded by a 10-day Chillai-Bachha (baby cold) from February 20 to March 2.
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A day before the onset of the harsh winter, temperatures already started to dip further below the freezing point at various locations throughout the Valley. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, shivered at a bone-chilling -4.4 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam claimed the title of the coldest spot in Kashmir, recording a frosty -6.3 degrees Celsius, while the renowned ski resort of Gulmarg registered a low of -4.4 degrees Celsius.
Other locations such as Qazigund, Kupwara, and Kokernag experienced lows of -4.0, -3.5, and 3.3 degrees Celsius, respectively.


Despite the piercing cold, the local weatherman anticipates dry weather conditions will prevail until December 28. The forecast suggests generally dry weather until December 22, transitioning to a cloudy outlook with a potential for light snow in isolated higher elevations on December 23. Subsequently, from December 24 to 28, the weather is expected to remain predominantly dry, with no significant weather events anticipated until December 28.

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Adding to the meteorological landscape, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed an overall surplus of precipitation from October 1, 2023, to December 20, 2023. However, specific areas, including Srinagar, Anantnag, Budgam, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Kulgam, and Pulwama, have received precipitation within the normal range during this period.

Data from the local Meteorological department reveals that twin stations, Kupwara and Bandipora, reported deficient rainfall, while the Shopian district experienced a substantial deficit in rainfall during the same timeframe.

In the midst of the relentless winter, the residents of Kashmir brace themselves for the challenges that Chilla-i- Kalan presents. The chilling temperatures and potential snowfall add to the resilience required by the local populace, making it a season marked not only by weather extremes but also by the community's ability to adapt to the harsh conditions and navigate through the frosty days ahead.