Srinagar, A cold wave has enveloped most parts of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), with snowfall in higher reaches and overcast skies in the plains pushing the minimum temperatures below the freezing point. This weather pattern marks the continuation of the region’s intense winter season.

According to Kashmir Media Service, officials have reported snowfall in various areas including Gulmarg, Tangmarg, Gurez, Sonamarg, and many parts of the Kupwara district. In the plains of Kashmir, including Srinagar city, the skies remain overcast, suggesting the possibility of significant rainfall or snow, which has been sparse in the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir this winter.

The weather forecast predicts light snowfall across most places in the Valley, extending into the first week of February. Currently, IIOJK is experiencing “Chilla-i-Kalan,” a 40-day period of harsh winter when a cold wave grips the region, causing temperatures to plummet, water bodies to freeze, and water in pipes to solidify.

The “Chilla-i-Kalan” is set to end on January 31. However, cold conditions are expected to persist, followed by a 20-day “Chilla-i-Khurd” (small cold) and a 10-day “Chilla-i-Bachha” (baby cold). These traditional terms reflect the staggered phases of the winter season in the region.

This ongoing cold wave and snowfall in IIOJK highlight the region’s distinctive climatic patterns and the challenges faced by the inhabitants during the winter months.