Residents of Kashmir witnessed an unusual weather pattern on Tuesday night as the minimum temperatures across the valley registered a significant increase, climbing above the normal average for this time of the season. However, the respite from the biting cold was only partial, as the maximum temperatures during the day continued to remain below freezing point in most places, ensuring the cold wave's grip on the region persisted.
Mercury Rises During the Night
According to data provided by the Meteorological (MeT) department in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, the night of February 20th saw warmer lows compared to previous nights. The city of Srinagar itself recorded a minimum temperature of -0.2 degrees Celsius, which is notably higher than the readings from the preceding days and sits above the normal average for late February.
This warming trend was not isolated to Srinagar. Other major towns in the Kashmir valley reported similar increases in their night-time mercury levels. The famous tourist destination of Pahalgam, which often records some of the region's lowest temperatures, registered a low of -3.4 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the ski-resort town of Gulmarg saw the mercury dip to -3.0 degrees Celsius. In the southern part of the valley, Qazigund recorded a minimum temperature of -0.6 degrees Celsius.
Daytime Chill Refuses to Relent
Despite the rise in night temperatures, the daytime scenario told a different story, offering little comfort from the winter chill. The maximum temperature, or the day's high, struggled to reach positive figures in several areas. This continuation of cold daytime conditions means that the overall feel of a cold wave persists across the Kashmir valley.
The MeT department has attributed this weather pattern to specific atmospheric conditions. A senior official from the department explained that the rise in minimum temperatures is linked to the movement of cloud cover and other meteorological factors that trap some heat during the night. However, the lack of strong sunlight and the prevalence of cold northerly winds are keeping the daytime temperatures suppressed.
Forecast and Implications
Looking ahead, the weather office has forecast a continuation of partly to generally cloudy skies over Jammu and Kashmir for the next 24 hours. The forecast also indicates the possibility of light rain or snow at isolated places towards the late afternoon or evening, particularly over higher reaches.
This mixed weather pattern has practical implications for daily life:
- Agriculture: Farmers remain cautious as fluctuating temperatures can impact horticulture, especially almond and apple blossoms that are sensitive to frost.
- Tourism: While Gulmarg continues to attract winter sports enthusiasts, the overall cold conditions affect general travel plans.
- Daily Commute: Icy conditions on roads during early morning and late evening hours continue to be a concern for commuters, despite the slight rise in night temperatures.
The MeT department has advised residents to stay updated with the latest forecasts, especially with the chance of isolated precipitation. While the spike in night temperatures offers a slight break from the intense cold, the authorities have indicated that the winter conditions are far from over, and another wave of colder weather may be expected as the month progresses. The people of the valley continue to bundle up, finding the slight nocturnal warmth a small, temporary relief in the long Himalayan winter.
