Kashmir continues to reel under an intense cold wave, with temperatures dipping sharply across the Valley. Srinagar recorded the coldest night of the season at –3.2°C, several degrees below the freezing point, according to officials on Monday. The persistent fall in temperatures has added to concerns amid a prolonged dry spell across the region.
In south Kashmir, Shopian emerged as the coldest location, plunging to –5.1°C, followed by Pulwama, where the minimum temperature also settled at –5°C, intensifying the winter chill. The popular tourist destination Pahalgam, in Anantnag district, recorded a minimum of –4°C, while the renowned ski resort Gulmarg in north Kashmir saw temperatures drop to –1.9°C.
The high-altitude Zojila Pass, a crucial link between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, witnessed extreme cold with temperatures touching –16°C, making it one of the coldest points in the region.
The Valley has been experiencing a dry spell since October, with no significant precipitation. The Meteorological Department has forecast dry weather over the coming week, extending the ongoing dry and frosty conditions.
