Srinagar Experiences Coldest Night of the Season with Record Low Temperatures

Srinagar has recorded its coldest night of the season with temperatures plummeting to minus 5.1 degrees Celsius. The local Meteorological Department has raised concerns about potential drought due to the lack of snowfall during the critical Chillai Kalan period. Residents are advised to take precautions against health issues related to the cold, as many are already experiencing respiratory ailments. The situation is compounded by the absence of significant snowfall, which is essential for replenishing water reservoirs for the summer months. As the winter progresses, the community remains vigilant about the impacts of these extreme weather conditions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 8, 2026, 13:04 IST

Srinagar's Record Low Temperatures

Srinagar, January 8: Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar city recorded its coldest night of the season on Thursday, with temperatures dropping to minus 5.1 degrees Celsius.

Mukhtar Ahmed, the director of the local Meteorological Department, confirmed to a news agency, “Srinagar has recorded its lowest minimum temperature of the season at minus 5.1 degrees Celsius today.”

In addition, Gulmarg experienced even colder conditions with a minimum temperature of minus 9.2 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam recorded minus 8.6 degrees Celsius.

Other areas reported varying temperatures: Jammu city at 7.1 degrees, Katra at 4.1, Batote at 2.8, Banihal at 3.7, and Bhaderwah at minus 3.4 degrees Celsius.

The Meteorological Department has predicted cold and dry weather conditions to persist until January 20, raising concerns about potential drought in the upcoming months.

This anxiety is heightened by the ongoing 40-day period of severe winter known as ‘Chillai Kalan’, which began on December 21 and concludes on January 30. This period is crucial for heavy snowfall, which replenishes the region's water reservoirs.

These reservoirs are vital for sustaining rivers, streams, springs, lakes, and wells throughout the summer months in the union territory.

Snowfall occurring in February and March tends to melt quickly and does not provide lasting benefits. Therefore, a lack of significant snowfall during Chillai Kalan could lead to severe water shortages in the summer.

Notably, Srinagar has yet to experience its first snowfall of the season, even as winter progresses.

The ongoing cold and dry weather has led to an increase in respiratory and cardiac ailments in the Valley. Medical professionals have advised individuals with heart and lung conditions to remain indoors during the morning chill. Residents are bundling up in layers of warm clothing, including woollen jerseys, caps, and mufflers, along with the traditional tweed overgarment known as the ‘Pheran’ to combat the harsh winter cold.

On Thursday, a weak winter sun shone in the clear sky over the Valley, but it struggled to provide warmth during the chilly morning hours.