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The picturesque region of Kashmir in India experienced a significant weather event on Sunday, as a fresh spell of snowfall swept across most parts of the valley, including the summer capital, Srinagar. This snowfall marks a continuation of the intense cold wave that has gripped the region for the past two days, pushing the mercury well below the freezing point. The impact of this frigid weather is widespread, affecting daily life, tourism, and infrastructure across the region. The beauty of the snow-covered landscapes is undeniable, but the harsh realities of sub-zero temperatures pose significant challenges for residents and necessitate preparation and adaptation.
Specific areas like Bandipora, Baramulla, and Kupwara in northern Kashmir, along with sections of Budgam and Ganderbal in central Kashmir, witnessed snowfall in the morning. However, the snowfall wasn't limited to these areas; Srinagar and parts of southern Kashmir also experienced snowfall later in the evening. This widespread snowfall underscores the severity of the cold wave currently impacting the entire region. The persistent low temperatures are not just a temporary inconvenience; they pose considerable risks, particularly to vulnerable populations and those living in less insulated housing.
The intensity of the cold wave is evident in the recorded temperatures. Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded a maximum temperature of only 1.5 degrees Celsius on Sunday, a stark indication of the pervasive cold. This follows a similarly frigid Saturday, where the maximum temperature was a mere 1.2 degrees Celsius. This sustained period of sub-zero temperatures highlights the intensity and duration of the cold wave, demonstrating its significant impact on the region. The situation is exacerbated by the night temperatures, which plummeted even further across the valley.
The impact of the extreme cold is not uniformly distributed across Kashmir. Some areas experienced significantly lower temperatures than others, revealing the variations in microclimates within the region. For example, Kokernag in South Kashmir recorded the lowest temperature, reaching a bone-chilling minus 8.1 degrees Celsius. This stark temperature difference exemplifies the uneven distribution of cold air and highlights the challenges posed to different communities in the region. Srinagar, while cold, experienced a less extreme minimum temperature of minus 2.5 degrees Celsius, illustrating the significant variation in the cold wave's effects across different geographical locations.
Other areas also saw freezing temperatures, indicating the widespread nature of the cold wave. Gulmarg, a popular tourist destination renowned for its skiing activities, recorded a minimum temperature of minus 4.0 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam, a crucial base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra, registered a minimum temperature of minus 3.2 degrees Celsius. These low temperatures highlight the impact on tourism and pilgrimage activities, potentially disrupting plans and necessitating extra precautions for visitors and pilgrims. The gateway town of Qazigund recorded a minimum temperature of minus 3.6 degrees Celsius, while Konibal in Pampore reached minus 3.5 degrees Celsius.
Kupwara in North Kashmir registered a minimum temperature of minus 2.8 degrees Celsius, showcasing the pervasive nature of the cold wave across different regions of Kashmir. The contrasting temperatures across the different regions of Kashmir emphasize the necessity of region-specific disaster preparedness and response planning. Understanding the unique challenges faced by each area ensures that resources and support are effectively allocated to meet the needs of those most affected by the cold wave.
The current cold wave is not an isolated event but part of a larger meteorological pattern known as 'Chillai-Kalan'. This period, which began on December 21st and is expected to last until January 30th, is the harshest part of the Kashmiri winter. During this 40-day period, the probability of snowfall is at its highest, and temperatures typically plummet significantly. Following 'Chillai-Kalan' are 'Chillai-Khurd' (a 20-day period of slightly milder cold) and 'Chillai-Bachha' (a 10-day period marking the end of the harshest winter). Understanding this meteorological context provides a framework for anticipating and preparing for the ongoing and future cold weather.
The prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures necessitates precautionary measures for residents of Kashmir. The risk of frostbite and hypothermia is heightened during this period. Authorities play a crucial role in disseminating information about safe practices, ensuring adequate access to healthcare, and providing support to vulnerable populations. This includes providing shelter and warmth to those most at risk, distributing essential supplies, and maintaining critical infrastructure during the cold spell. Community-based initiatives can also play a vital role in ensuring mutual support and resilience during this challenging period. The collaboration between authorities and the community is essential to minimize the impact of the severe cold weather on the residents of Kashmir.
The economic implications of the cold wave cannot be overlooked. The disruption to transportation, tourism, and various other economic activities can have significant consequences for the regional economy. Reduced agricultural yields due to the prolonged frost can also lead to economic hardship for farming communities. The potential impact on the tourism sector, which is a vital part of Kashmir's economy, is a major concern. The extended cold spell might lead to cancellations or postponements of tourism-related activities, affecting the livelihoods of numerous individuals and businesses dependent on the sector. Understanding and mitigating these economic repercussions is crucial for the overall well-being of the Kashmiri economy.
Source: Fresh snowfall in Srinagar, parts of Kashmir; mercury below freezing point