Srinagar, January 30, 2026 : Night temperatures recorded a noticeable rise across most parts of the Kashmir Valley as Chillai Kalan, the 40-day harshest phase of winter, came to an end on Friday, officials said. Several areas, including Srinagar, witnessed temperatures settling above the freezing point, bringing partial relief from the intense cold.
According to the Meteorological Department, Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 1.3°C, a sharp increase from the previous night’s –0.6°C, and 2.2°C above the seasonal normal. Similar conditions prevailed in other parts of the valley, with Konibal recording 1.0°C, Pulwama 0.1°C, and Kulgam 1.1°C. Most weather stations reported temperatures above the seasonal average.
Despite the overall rise, Sonamarg in Ganderbal district remained the coldest place in Jammu and Kashmir, registering a low of –10.6°C, slightly higher than the previous night’s –11.2°C. The ski resort of Gulmarg recorded –9°C, while Pahalgam in south Kashmir logged –5.3°C.
In other areas, Qazigund recorded a minimum of –0.3°C, Kokernag –0.6°C, and Kupwara –3.1°C.
Chillai Kalan, which began on December 21, brought multiple spells of snowfall in higher reaches, while the plains, including Srinagar, experienced light to moderate snow. With its conclusion, the valley now enters the 20-day Chillai Khurd (small cold), followed by 10-day Chillai Bachha (baby cold).
Meteorological officials said a fresh western disturbance is likely to affect the region on Sunday, potentially bringing another spell of wet weather.
