NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 17 (NVI):A biting cold wave swept through the Kashmir Valley, Jammu region, and Ladakh with temperatures plummeting to sub-zero levels across most parts, bringing life to a near standstill. The freezing conditions continued unabated as both higher and lower altitude areas recorded some of the coldest temperatures of the season.
In the Kashmir Valley, the coldest place was Anantnag and Shopian, both plunging to a chilling -8.9°C, followed closely by Larnoo at -8.8°C and Pulwama at -8.5°C. The popular tourist destinations of Pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded -6.8°C and -4.0°C, respectively, while Sonamarg was gripped by an even harsher -7.7°C. Srinagar froze at -5.3 degrees Celsius temperatures with water bodies including famous Dal Lake freezing partially at some places.
Meanwhile, in the Jammu region, sub-zero temperatures were recorded in Padder at -8.3°C, making it the coldest location in the division. Udhampur dipped to -0.5°C, and Samba recorded a near-freezing 0.5°C. Other areas like Jammu city remained relatively warmer at 4.9°C, providing slight respite to the residents.
In the Ladakh region, the harsh winter deepened further as Kargil recorded the lowest temperature of the day at -12.5°C, followed by Leh at -8.8°C. The extreme temperatures in Ladakh have severely disrupted daily life, with frozen water pipes and icy roads becoming common obstacles for residents.
The ongoing cold wave has left residents scrambling for warmth, with demand for heating devices, firewood, and winter essentials soaring. Officials have urged people to take precautions to avoid weather-related ailments.
Meteorological experts suggest the frigid conditions may persist for the coming days, with clear skies exacerbating the drop in nighttime temperatures. Tourists in Kashmir and Ladakh are braving the chill to enjoy the winter landscape, particularly in hotspots like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, where the snow-covered scenery has turned into a visual delight.
Authorities remain on high alert, ensuring the smooth supply of essential commodities and responding to potential disruptions caused by the freezing conditions(News Vibes of India)
