Jammu and Kashmir witnessed an intense cold wave on Sunday as temperatures plummeted across the region, with several areas recording sub-zero temperatures.
According to MeT Data, the minimum temperature in Srinagar on Sunday dipped to minus 4.6 degrees Celsius, while many other places experienced even harsher conditions.
Anantnag recorded a bone-chilling low of -10.5°C, followed by Shopian at -10.4°C and Pulwama at -10.3°C. Larnoo registered -9.3°C, Khudwani -9.0°C, and Sonamarg -8.8°C. The popular tourist destination Pahalgam recorded a minimum temperature of -8.6°C, while Budgam and Qazigund shivered at -8.3°C and -8.2°C, respectively.
The icy conditions have led to freezing water bodies, disrupted water supply lines, and increased difficulties for residents in managing daily chores.
As per Meteorological Centre Srinagar forecast, the region will experience generally cloudy skies with very light snowfall over a few higher reaches of north Kashmir.
“From 23rd to 26th December, the weather is expected to remain generally dry. On 27th and 28th December, a change is predicted, with generally cloudy skies accompanied by light rain in the plains of Jammu and light snowfall over the higher reaches of Chenab Valley,” it said.
While dense fog continued to engulf many parts on Sunday including the city as a consequence of which vehicles moved with headlights on during the morning and evening hours.
‘Chillai-Kalan’ commenced on December 21 and will conclude on January 31, followed by an extended cold wave with ‘Chillai-Khurd’ (small cold) lasting for 20 days and ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold) persisting for 10 days in Kashmir.
