Jammu & Kashmir reeled under a severe cold wave on Wednesday as minimum temperatures dipped sharply across most districts, with several areas recording their coldest night of the season so far.
In Kashmir, Baramulla (-5.9°C), Shopian (-6.2°C), Pampore (-5.5°C), Pulwama (-5.8°C), and Anantnag (-5.5°C) witnessed a significant drop, indicating strengthening night chill across the Valley. Zojila Pass remained the coldest location at –16.0°C, reflecting harsh winter conditions over the higher reaches.
Srinagar recorded a low of –3.9°C, while Qazigund, Pahalgam, and Kupwara settled at –3.4°C, –4.6°C, and –4.0°C, respectively. Gulmarg, the popular ski destination, was the only location in the Valley to remain at the freezing point with 0.0°C.
The Jammu region also experienced a notable temperature dip. While Jammu city recorded 8.8°C, Banihal touched –0.7°C, and Bhaderwah recorded 0.5°C. Several districts including Samba (3.9°C), Rajouri (2.6°C), and Ramban (4.3°C) reported colder-than-usual nights.
In the Union Territory of Ladakh, Kargil remained the coldest at –9.0°C, followed by Leh at –8.2°C, and Nubra at –6.8°C, indicating persistent severe winter conditions in the region.
The continuous fall in temperatures has led to increased frost formation, frozen water bodies, and intensified morning fog across multiple districts. Weather experts predict the cold wave to persist, with further drop likely in the coming days.(KINS)
