Chilly Wave Grips in J&K, and Ladakh: Minimum Temperatures Dip Below Freezing in Many Areas

Srinagar, November 28: The region witnessed a sharp drop in temperatures today, with freezing conditions persisting across much of Kashmir, Jammu, and Ladakh. Several areas in the Kashmir Valley recorded sub-zero temperatures, signaling the onset of a harsh winter.

The coldest places in the Valley were Shopian (-5.5°C) and Anantnag (-5.1°C), followed closely by Pahalgam (-5.0°C) and Pulwama (-4.8°C). Srinagar, the summer capital, registered -2.1°C, while Gulmarg, the famed ski destination, recorded -2.5°C. Sonamarg and Qazigund were also in the deep freeze at -3.4°C and -3.0°C, respectively.

In contrast, the Jammu region experienced relatively milder conditions, with temperatures remaining above freezing in most areas. Jammu city recorded a minimum of 10.1°C, the highest in the region. However, some parts, such as Padder (-5.5°C) and Bhaderwah (1.2°C), saw much colder nights.

Ladakh remained the coldest zone, with Drass, often called the second coldest inhabited place on Earth, plummeting to -12.2°C. Leh and Kargil also shivered at -8.8°C and -8.3°C, respectively.

The drop in temperatures has raised concerns among residents about the challenges of winter, including freezing water supply lines and increased energy demands for heating. Authorities have advised people to take precautions to stay warm and avoid unnecessary exposure to the cold.