Cold wave on its peak in Kashmir Valley ahead of the onset of Chillai-Kalan, the 40-day harshest winter period, with the summer capital Srinagar and Leh town recording the coldest night of the season. Chillai-Kalan, considered the harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum, will begin tomorrow.
The weather usually remains cold during this period with the mercury remaining several degrees below freezing point, which often leads to freezing of water supply lines as well as water bodies, including the famous Dal Lake.
According to MET department, Srinagar recorded a low of minus 5.5 degrees Celsius last night. It said, this is the lowest night temperature the city has experienced so far this winter. Leh, in Ladakh region, also recorded the coldest night of the season as the mercury settled at a low of minus 14 degrees Celsius.