The Last Snowfall

According to the Turkmen agricultural calendar, the period of the last snowfall begins after February 7. The “small frost” (kiçi çille) and the last snowfall mark the end of winter. During this time, snow and frosts are stronger than usual, making it a critical period for livestock farming.

A Turkmen proverb says: “Kiçi çille: ‘Yalkasam — feed milk and yogurt, gargasam — head and legs’.” This is because the first lambs and kids appear during the last snowfall, and herders start feeding milk and cream to the livestock. Strong frosts can sometimes reduce livestock numbers.

Weather reports indicate snow and precipitation occurred throughout the country during kiçi çille. While favorable for autumn wheat, this posed challenges for herders. By February 17, the ground begins to warm, and vegetables and fodder crops start sprouting. Folk tradition says a moment appears between winter and summer on this day, softening even the earth. The last snowfall ends on February 22, and the period known as “çarwa nowruzy” begins. Short cold spells called guşgaýy or düwlendoňak may occur during this period.