Light snowfall in higher reaches, plains remain dry in J&K

Srinagar, Jan 27 (WD):

Light snowfall touched the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir in the last 24 hours, bringing relief from the severe cold in both the Valley and Jammu division on Saturday. Popular locations like Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Sinthan Top, Mughal Road, Karnah, Razdan Pass, and Zojila Pass experienced a gentle dusting of snow.

Meanwhile, inhabitants of the plains are still awaiting the arrival of this season’s first snowfall. Srinagar reported a minimum temperature of -2.3, Gulmarg -6.4, and Pahalgam -5.1.

In the Ladakh region, Leh recorded a minimum of -9.8, while Kargil reported -10.5. Jammu city experienced a milder night at 7 degrees, Katra at 7.6, Batote at 3.1, Bhaderwah at -0.2, and Banihal at 0.4.

The 40-day-long period known as ‘Chillai Kalan,’ characterized by harsh winter cold, commenced on December 21 and will persist until January 30.