Srinagar, Jan 10: A severe cold wave continues to sweep across the Kashmir Valley, Jammu, and Ladakh regions as temperatures plunge below freezing, causing frost and icy conditions in most areas. The harsh winter weather has disrupted daily life and heightened concerns for residents.
Kashmir Valley
The Kashmir region recorded frigid conditions, with Larnoo registering the lowest temperature at -11.3°C. Popular tourist destinations Pahalgam and Gulmarg shivered at -10.0°C and -8.1°C, respectively. Shopian and Kulgam also experienced significant drops, recording -9.3°C and -7.8°C. The capital city Srinagar witnessed a minimum temperature of -4.3°C, while Sonamarg and Khudwani stood at -7.6°C and -7.3°C, respectively.
Other regions such as Kupwara (-5.6°C), Pulwama (-6.6°C), and Anantnag (-8.0°C) also faced extreme cold.
Jammu Region
The Jammu region fared slightly better but still experienced a notable chill, especially in higher altitudes. While Jammu city recorded a relatively mild 4.9°C, colder areas like Padder and Rajouri recorded -5.0°C and 2.8°C, respectively. Katra and Ramban, however, remained on the warmer side at 6.1°C, with Kathua close at 6.0°C.
The hill stations of Bhaderwah (0.0°C), Batote (3.0°C), and Banihal (4.9°C) also saw freezing conditions, further impacting transportation and water supply in the region.
Ladakh Region
The coldest temperatures were recorded in Ladakh, where Drass, known as the “Gateway to Ladakh,” experienced a bone-chilling -24.9°C, the lowest in the region. Kargil and Leh followed with -15.6°C and -13.2°C, respectively, making it nearly impossible for locals to venture outdoors.
Impact on Daily Life:
The intense cold has disrupted daily life, with frozen water bodies, frost-covered roads, and water supply systems affected in many areas. Authorities have urged residents to take precautions to stay warm and avoid unnecessary travel, especially in high-altitude regions.
Stay tuned for updates as the cold wave persists across Northern India.(QNS)
