SRINAGAR: Sub-zero temperatures continued across large parts of Kashmir, with several areas recording minimum temperatures well below the freezing point, while the Meteorological Department has forecast a fresh spell of rain and snowfall later this week.
According to data compiled by Kashmir Weather, Shopian and Sonamarg emerged as the coldest locations in the Valley, both recording a minimum temperature of –5.5°C, followed by Gulmarg at –5.0°C and Pulwama at –4.9°C. Srinagar registered a low of –2.4°C, while the city airport recorded –3.4°C.
Other parts of the Valley also witnessed freezing night temperatures, including Anantnag at –4.2°C, Beerwah in Budgam at –4.1°C, Pahalgam at –3.8°C, Qazigund at –3.3°C and Kupwara at –3.0°C. Baramulla recorded –1.9°C, Bandipora –1.5°C, Ganderbal –0.9°C, and Kokernag -0.6°C.
In the Jammu region, comparatively milder conditions prevailed. Jammu city recorded a minimum temperature of 7.2°C, while Jammu Airport logged 7.4°C. Katra registered 7.0°C, Kathua 6.0°C and Poonch 5.7°C. However, higher reaches continued to experience colder nights, with Banihal at –2.3°C, Bhaderwah at –1.8°C, Samba at –0.1°C and Udhampur at 0.6°C.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has warned of a fresh spell of rain and snowfall likely to affect parts of Jammu and Kashmir later this week, particularly around January 23. Officials cautioned that the system may bring heavy snowfall in higher reaches, accompanied by strong winds and the risk of landslides in vulnerable areas.
Residents and travellers have been advised to remain alert and follow official weather advisories as conditions are expected to deteriorate during the approaching western disturbance.
