Cold wave conditions tightened their grip over Kashmir as minimum temperatures dipped well below the freezing point across the valley on Monday night, officials said on Tuesday.
Srinagar recorded a low of –3.7°C, dropping from –2.4°C the previous night and settling 3.1 degrees below normal for this time of the year. Most places in the valley reported below-normal night temperatures as the winter chill intensified.
In south Kashmir, Qazigund recorded –3.6°C, while Kupwara in north Kashmir also registered the same minimum temperature. Kokernag was relatively warmer but still below freezing at –0.5°C.
Tourist destinations and hill towns witnessed even harsher conditions. Pahalgam: –4.8°C, Gulmarg: –2.5°C, Pulwama: –5.1°C (coldest location in J&K)
The Meteorological Department said the weather is expected to remain generally dry until December 12, with a possibility of light rain or snowfall in isolated higher reaches from December 13 onward.
Meanwhile, residents across the valley are gearing up for the 40-day harsh winter period “Chillai Kalan”, which begins on December 21 and is known for extreme cold and frequent sub-zero temperatures.(KINS)
