Srinagar — A severe cold wave continues to affect Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, with temperatures remaining well below the freezing point across most parts of the region. The harsh winter conditions have tightened their grip during the ongoing Chilla-e-Kalan, the coldest 40-day period of winter.
According to weather officials, Gulmarg recorded the lowest temperature at –8.8°C, making it the coldest place in Kashmir. Other areas in the Kashmir Valley also experienced freezing nights, with several towns recording minimum temperatures between –2°C and –6°C.
In Srinagar, the minimum temperature dropped below zero, causing water bodies and supply lines to partially freeze. The famous Dal Lake and other smaller lakes showed thin layers of ice in some areas. Residents have been relying heavily on traditional heating methods such as kangris and electric heaters to stay warm.
South Kashmir districts, including Shopian, Pulwama, Anantnag, and Kulgam, also reported sub-zero temperatures. Central Kashmir areas like Budgam and Ganderbal experienced similar conditions. Meanwhile, higher reaches of Ladakh continued to witness extreme cold, with temperatures plunging far below freezing during the night.
Meteorological officials said the cold wave has intensified due to clear skies and dry weather, which allow heat to escape rapidly after sunset. While no major snowfall has been reported in the plains recently, light snow is expected over higher elevations in the coming days.
Despite the cold, tourist activity continues in popular destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, especially among winter sports enthusiasts. However, authorities have advised travelers and residents to take precautions, as icy roads and low temperatures may affect daily life.
The cold wave is expected to persist for the next few days, with only slight improvement in night temperatures after a western disturbance brings cloud cover later this week.
