Weather News: IMD predicts snowfall in J&K, fog alert in Punjab, Haryana; Check latest updates

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India Meteorological Department (IMD) in an official release predicted a forecast for isolated light rainfall or snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, and Himachal Pradesh from the 22nd to the 24th of December. Additionally, on December 23rd, isolated light rainfall or snowfall is likely in North Punjab, North Haryana, and Uttarakhand. The Kashmir Valley is experiencing frigid temperatures, with the minimum temperature remaining several degrees below freezing, as it prepares for the onset of 'Chilla-i-Kalan,' the 40 days of the harshest winter, PTI reported citing officials on Wednesday.

Also Read: Fog alert for Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, and Meghalaya. Check IMD forecast here In Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, the temperature dropped to minus 4.4 degrees Celsius on Tuesday night, a decrease from the previous night's reading of minus 3.7 degrees Celsius, according to officials. 'Chilla-i-Kalan' marks the 40 days of the most severe winter conditions in the region, characterized by a pervasive cold wave and a significant drop in temperatures.

During this time, water bodies, including the renowned Dal Lake, and water supply lines across various parts of the valley often freeze. The likelihood of snowfall is highest and most frequent during this period, particularly in the elevated areas where heavy snowfall is common. Commencing on December 21, 'Chilla-i-Kalan' extends until January 31, encompassing the peak of winter conditions in the region.