SRINAGAR: The Kashmir valley is gripped by an intense cold wave, with temperatures plunging across the region. In the Jammu region, temperatures also dipped significantly, though not as drastically.
Srinagar recorded a low of -3.6°C, while several places in the valley, including Shopian at -7.3°C and Anantnag at -6.1°C, reported even colder conditions. Sonamarg, at -5.1°C, and Zojila, plummeting to a bone-chilling -25.0°C, underscored the severity of the cold wave. The frigid temperatures have frozen parts of the Dal Lake, a striking yet stark reminder of the harsh winter.
Jammu recorded a minimum of 6.7°C, while Banihal dropped to -1.7°C. Samba and Kathua were slightly warmer at 4.7°C and 7.4°C respectively. Padder in the Chenab valley experienced icy conditions at -6.8°C.
In Ladakh, the mercury fell further, with Leh registering -9.2°C and Kargil slightly colder at -9.5°C. Drass, known for its extreme winters, did not report data, though the region is historically one of the coldest places in India.
As the cold wave tightens its grip, the Indian Meteorological Department has forecast a further drop in temperatures beginning December 24. Visuals from the valley depict residents huddled around bonfires and bundled in layers of clothing as they brace for harsher days ahead.
The extreme weather has prompted action from the Jammu and Kashmir administration. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, citing the ongoing difficulties with water and electricity supplies, cancelled his upcoming engagements in Jammu to focus on addressing these challenges in Srinagar. In a statement posted on X, he assured the public that he would personally oversee the functioning of the power and other essential departments during the crisis. While he apologised to those affected by his decision to cancel scheduled programmes, he emphasised the urgency of the situation.
