Kashmir: Unseasonably Cold Temperatures Following a Warm Winter

Kashmir is grappling with lower-than-normal daytime temperatures following recent rainfall and snowfall, a stark contrast to the warm winter experienced earlier this year. The unusual weather pattern, noted by officials on Friday, is expected to positively impact crops and flowering plants.

Since Sunday, prolonged intermittent rains have hit much of the valley, with snowfall in higher elevations such as Gulmarg and Sonamarg. Consequently, the region's mountains are now draped in fresh snow. The cool weather has driven down daytime temperatures, with recent nights remaining warm due to cloud cover. Thursday's max temperature in Srinagar was 9.5 degrees Celsius, over six degrees below the usual.

The current cold spell arrives after a markedly dry winter season with a 65% rainfall deficit. Experts predict ongoing low temperatures could support plant growth by delaying flowering. Sameera Qayoom from SKUAST said the rainfall might bolster tulip longevity, while the MeT Office cautioned about sporadic rain/snow till the month's end.