Srinagar, Jan 09: The Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh continue to reel under a severe cold wave, with minimum temperatures plummeting well below freezing across most areas.
Kashmir Region
The picturesque valley of Kashmir experienced bone-chilling temperatures, with Pahalgam recording a freezing low of -10.4°C, while Larnoo reported the coldest temperature at -11.6°C. Popular tourist destinations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg saw temperatures of -9.6°C and -9.4°C, respectively. Other significant lows include:
• Srinagar: -4.4°C
• Qazigund: -6.2°C
• Anantnag and Kulgam: -8.4°C each
• Shopian: -9.9°C
The freezing temperatures have left water pipes frozen, affecting daily life across the region.
Jammu Region
The Jammu division experienced relatively milder conditions, with Jammu city recording a minimum of 5.5°C. However, the cold wave was evident in higher altitudes and remote areas:
• Bhaderwah: -0.2°C
• Padder: -5.1°C
• Banihal: 3.8°C
• Rajouri and Samba: 2.1°C each
Ladakh
The cold was at its harshest in Ladakh, with Drass, known as the “Coldest Place in India,” recording a bone-numbing -24.8°C. Leh and Kargil also witnessed extreme cold at -13.3°C and -14.6°C, respectively.
Impact
The extreme cold has disrupted normal life, freezing water bodies and creating challenges in the supply of essential services like water and electricity. Residents are relying on traditional heating methods to cope, while tourists continue to flock to these snow-clad destinations, particularly Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
Authorities have issued warnings to travelers to exercise caution on snow-covered roads and advised locals to take necessary precautions against the cold.(QNS)
