SRINAGAR: Barring Gulmarg, minimum temperature recorded a slight rise in Kashmir Valley with Srinagar recording minus 3.7°C on Saturday, officials said.   

A meteorological department official here told GNS Srinagar recorded a rise of 1.2°C compared to previous night's minus 4.9°C and it was 1.6°C below normal for the summer capital of J&K for this time of the year.

Qazigund recorded a minimum of minus 4.0°C against minus 5.0°C on the previous night, he said. The minimum temperature was 0.7°C below normal for the gateway town of Kashmir, the MeT official said.

Pahalgam recorded a low of minus 5.5°C against minus 6.3°C on the previous night and it was 1.7°C above normal for the famous resort in south Kashmir.

Kokernag, also in south Kashmir, recorded a minimum of minus 2.0°C against minus 1.4°C on the previous night and the temperature was above normal by 1.9°C for the place, the official said.

Kupwara town in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 4.7°C against minus 5.0°C on the previous night and it was 1.6°C below normal there, the official said.

Gulmarg, the official said, recorded a low of minus 4.6°C against minus 3.6°C on the previous night and the temperature was 3.1°C above normal for the world famous skiing resort in north Kashmir.

Jammu, he said, recorded a minimum of 5.9°C against 5.0°C on the previous night, and it was below normal by 1.2°C for the winter capital of J&K.

Banihal recorded a low of minus 1.4°C, Batote 1.9°C and Bhaderwah minus 0.4°C, he said.

The MeT has forecast for light snow at isolated higher reaches on January 25 and light rain and snow over scattered places for subsequent two days in Jammu and Kashmir.

 “Dry weather is likely to continue till January 24 with generally cloudy on 20th evening,” the official said.

On January 25, he said, light snow at isolated higher reaches was expected while from January 26-28, light rain and snow was expected over scattered places.

 “As per indications of different models, there is possibility of light to moderate rain/snow at many places very likely from January 29-31,(Detailed information will be shared in coming days),” he said 

The MeT department also forecast redevelopment of moderate to dense fog and fall in day temperature over Jammu Division during next three days.

Kashmir valley is under ‘Chillai-Kalan’, the 40-day harsh period of winter, which will end on January 29. However it does not mean an end to the winter. It is followed by a 20-day-long period called ‘Chillai-Khurd’ that occurs between January 30 and February 19 and a 10-day-long period ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold) which is from February 20 to March 1. (GNS)

RJ Abid Khan

Kashmir, a region celebrated for its enchanting winter landscapes, is currently facing an unprecedented challenge – the tangible effects of global warming on its climate. This year, the region has witnessed a disturbing trend of rising temperatures during winter, jeopardizing the traditional spectacle of heavy snowfall. This shift not only threatens the region's critical water resources, historically sustained by winter snow, but also casts a shadow over the vibrant winter tourism industry, with a particular blow to renowned destinations like Gulmarg, famous for its winter games.

Escalating Winter Temperatures

Thallmark of Kashmir's winter has been the serene blanket of snow covering its landscapes. However, this year has brought about a disconcerting change as temperatures continue to rise during the winter months. Such a deviation from the norm poses immediate challenges to the delicate ecological balance of the region.

Snowfall and Water Resources

Winter snowfall has been a lifeline for Kashmir's water resources, serving as a natural reservoir that gradually replenishes rivers and lakes. The scarcity of snowfall this year raises concerns about water availability in the upcoming months, impacting agriculture, local communities, and the delicate ecosystems that depend on this seasonal influx.

Winter Tourism's Precarious Future

Kashmir's winter tourism has been a key economic driver, drawing visitors from around the globe. The allure of pristine, snow-covered landscapes has been a significant factor in this appeal. However, with the diminishing snowfall, iconic destinations like Gulmarg are facing a crisis. The dependability of snow-covered terrains for winter sports and games is eroding, presenting a significant threat to the livelihoods of those dependent on the tourism industry.

Gulmarg: A Struggling Hub for Winter Games

Gulmarg, celebrated for its ski resorts and winter festivities, finds itself at the forefront of the climate change impact. The reduction in snowfall not only compromises the visual splendor of the region but also endangers the viability of winter sports. Local businesses and individuals reliant on winter tourism are grappling with uncertainty and economic challenges.

The current scenario in Kashmir, marked by rising winter temperatures and a decline in snowfall, serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact of global warming. The interconnected issues of compromised water resources and the jeopardy faced by winter tourism, especially in places like Gulmarg, underscore the urgency of addressing climate change. It is imperative that local and global communities come together to adopt sustainable practices and mitigate the adverse effects of global warming, ensuring the preservation of the unique charm that has defined Kashmir's winters for generations.

This piece solely belongs to RJ Abid Khan