Kashmir shivers as cold wave intensifies

Srinagar, Dec 6: Cold conditions have gripped Kashmir, with the minimum temperature plunging several degrees below freezing point, making Friday night the coldest of the season so far, Meteorological Department officials here said.

The night temperatures across Kashmir continued to drop sharply due to prolonged dry weather, which also caused a rainfall deficit in the Valley this year.

According to officials, temperatures were recorded at 1.2 to 3.2 degrees below normal for this time of the season.

In Srinagar, the season’s lowest temperature of minus 4.1 degrees Celsius was recorded, marking a two-degree drop from the previous night.

Qazigund, known as the gateway town to Kashmir, registered its coldest night at minus 4.4 degrees Celsius.

Tourist hotspots also reported freezing conditions.

Pahalgam recorded a minimum temperature of minus 6.5 degrees Celsius, the coldest so far this winter.

Gulmarg ski resort in Baramulla district saw temperatures drop to minus 4.3 degrees Celsius, while Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded minus 3.4 degrees Celsius, and Kokernag in south Kashmir registered minus 2.4 degrees Celsius.

The prolonged dry spell has not only intensified the chill but also worsened Valley’s rainfall deficit. According to MeT data, Kashmir has received significantly less precipitation this year compared to the seasonal average, affecting water availability and agricultural activities in several areas. The Meteorological Department has forecast generally dry weather until Saturday, with a further dip in night temperatures likely.

However, daytime temperatures are expected to remain relatively warmer.

“There is a possibility of light rain in some plains and hilly areas of the Jammu division, as well as light rain or snow in higher altitudes late on December 8 and into the morning of December 9,” the MeT officials said.

From December 10 to 14, the weather is likely to remain dry, with a slight chance of light rain or snow in isolated areas on December 15 and 16.

The Valley is bracing for harsher winter conditions as the famous ‘Chillai Kalan,’ 40 days of extreme cold, starts later this month.