Kashmir freezes as the cold wave intensifies across the valley, with several areas recording their coldest nights of the season. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, experienced a bone-chilling low of minus 5.4 degrees Celsius, marking the season’s lowest temperature so far. Meanwhile, Sonamarg stood out as the coldest location in the region, with the mercury plummeting to an extreme minus 9.7 degrees Celsius.
Season’s Coldest Temperatures Recorded Across Kashmir
The ongoing cold wave has gripped Kashmir, plunging temperatures across popular tourist destinations and local towns alike. Gulmarg, a renowned ski-resort, registered the second-lowest temperature in the region, with a freezing minus 9.0 degrees Celsius.
Pahalgam, another famous tourist destination, recorded minus 8.4 degrees Celsius, while Shopian in South Kashmir experienced an icy low of minus 8.5 degrees Celsius. These temperatures highlight the intensity of the winter season this year, affecting daily life across the valley.
Srinagar Witnesses The Coldest Night Of The Season
Srinagar, often referred to as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, witnessed its coldest night this season, with temperatures dipping to minus 5.4 degrees Celsius. Residents woke up to frosty windows and icy streets, as the cold wave firmly took hold of the city.
In comparison to the last few winters, this year’s drop in temperatures marks one of the most severe cold spells in Srinagar. Local residents have been urged to prepare for prolonged cold conditions as the freezing weather continues to impact daily routines.
Temperature Plunge In Other Areas
Apart from Srinagar, several other areas in Kashmir reported frigid temperatures:
- Sonamarg: Minus 9.7°C (coldest in the region)
- Gulmarg: Minus 9.0°C
- Pahalgam: Minus 8.4°C
- Shopian: Minus 8.5°C
- Qazigund: Minus 6.4°C
- Kupwara: Minus 4.5°C
- Kokernag: Minus 4.0°C
These numbers paint a stark picture of the widespread cold wave gripping the valley, leaving many areas frozen under sub-zero conditions.
Weatherman Predicts No Major Relief
The meteorological department has forecast no major changes in the weather for the next ten days. While the current dry spell is expected to continue, the intense cold wave is likely to persist, keeping temperatures below freezing across the region.
This prolonged cold weather is also contributing to frozen water bodies, including parts of the Dal Lake, and has disrupted basic utilities like water supply in some areas. Local authorities have advised residents to take necessary precautions to combat the icy conditions.
Impact On Daily Life And Tourism
The extreme cold has significantly affected daily life in the valley, as residents brace for the harsh winter months. The freezing temperatures have disrupted water supply in several areas due to frozen pipelines, while roads remain icy, creating challenges for transportation.
Tourism, however, continues to thrive despite the freezing conditions. Gulmarg and Pahalgam remain popular destinations for tourists seeking to experience the winter wonderland. The snow-covered landscapes and sub-zero temperatures have added to the allure of Kashmir for visitors, particularly those keen on skiing and other winter sports.
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A Snapshot Of Kashmir’s Freezing Winters
Kashmir’s winters have always been harsh, with temperatures frequently dipping below freezing. However, this year’s early and intense cold wave has taken residents and authorities by surprise. Historically, January, known as the “Chillai Kalan,” is the coldest period in Kashmir, but December has already set the tone for an unusually cold winter season.
While locals continue to adapt to the freezing conditions, the valley’s natural beauty during this season draws tourists from across the world. The frozen landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and pristine winter skies present a breathtaking contrast to the harsh weather, making Kashmir a unique winter destination.
The cold wave, coupled with no immediate weather relief in sight, has underscored the valley’s resilience and adaptability. As temperatures continue to plummet, Kashmir remains a testament to the harsh beauty of winter, captivating residents and visitors alike.