Kashmir Valley remained in the grip of a severe cold wave on Thursday as minimum temperatures continued to plunge well below the freezing point.

Freezing Temperatures Across Valley

Morning fog combined with a clear night sky intensified the chill in Srinagar, where pedestrians and motorists moved cautiously over slippery roads.
According to the Meteorological (MeT) Department, Srinagar recorded a minimum of –4°C, Pahalgam –4.8°C, and Gulmarg –1°C.

In Jammu division, the minimum temperatures were: Jammu city 8°C, Katra 8.4°C, Batote 4.7°C, Banihal 2.1°C, and Bhaderwah 0.4°C.

No Major Snowfall Expected Till December 10

MeT officials said that except for a weak western disturbance likely to bring light snowfall in higher reaches, no significant rain or snow is expected in J&K until December 10.
With prevailing weather patterns, night temperatures are expected to drop further in the coming days.

Locals Turn to Traditional Winter Gear

In Srinagar, sunlight offered little relief as residents braced for the biting cold, especially during early mornings and evenings.
Most people were seen wearing the traditional woollen overcoat, Pheran, while in rural areas many carried the Kangri — an earthen firepot held under the Pheran for warmth. The charcoal used in Kangris is often prepared from dried Chinar leaves.

Though affluent households rely on electric or fuel-based heating systems, the Pheran and Kangri remain the primary defense against winter chill for most Kashmiris.

Chillai Kalan Approaches

The Valley is set to enter ‘Chillai Kalan’, the harshest 40-day winter period, from December 21 to January 30.
During this phase, water bodies freeze and residents face daily struggles such as thawing frozen taps. Night temperatures typically fall between –5°C and –7°C, while day temperatures seldom rise into double digits.