Srinagar freezes at -3.6°C as severe cold wave grips Kashmir, Ladakh

at 12:37 pm

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 23 (NVI): Srinagar recorded a bone-chilling minimum temperature of -3.6°C as a severe cold wave tightened its grip over Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, causing widespread sub-zero temperatures.

In the Kashmir Valley, Shopian emerged as the coldest district with a minimum of -7.3°C, while Zojila Pass recorded a staggering low of -25°C, making it one of the coldest places in the region. Tourist hotspots Gulmarg and Pahalgam recorded -4.8°C and -5.0°C, respectively, while Pulwama and Anantnag witnessed frigid lows of -6.0°C and -6.1°C.

In the Jammu region, temperatures were comparatively milder, with Jammu city recording 6.7°C. However, higher-altitude areas like Banihal (-1.7°C) and Padder (-6.8°C) experienced biting cold.

Ladakh continues to endure harsh winter conditions, with Leh and Kargil recording -9.2°C and -9.5°C, respectively.

Meteorologists predict that the cold wave will persist in the coming days due to clear skies and dry weather conditions. Residents have been advised to take necessary precautions to combat the freezing temperatures.

Despite the chill, the cold weather is drawing tourists to Kashmir’s iconic winter destinations. Snow-covered landscapes in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg have become major attractions, offering a boost to the region’s tourism sector during the harsh winter months. (News Vibes of India)