Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has experienced a historic drop in temperatures, with the minimum recorded at minus 8.5°C, marking the coldest December night since 2000. This temperature is not only significant for its recent history but also ranks as the third lowest December temperature recorded in the city over the last 133 years, following a chilling all-time low of minus 12.8°C set in 1934.
As the region embarks on Chillai-Kalan, a 40-day period known for its harsh winter conditions, residents are feeling the bite of an intense cold wave. The onset of this season has brought frigid temperatures across the valley, with neighboring areas also recording significant lows. Shopian registered minus 10.4°C, Anantnag dipped to minus 10.5°C, while Pulwama settled at minus 10.3°C. Kulgam recorded a comparatively milder minus 6.8°C.
A meteorological department official said that Srinagar recorded a drop in temperature by 2.3°C than last night’s 6.2°C which was the previous lowest this season. Kashmir Valley witnesses one of the worst winters.
As per records since the start of the present century, the official said, the previous lowest in 24 years was recorded on 28 December 2018 when mercury plunged to -7.7°C. The lowest ever temperature was endured on 13 December 1934 when mercury plummeted to -12.8°C, he said. Qazigund the gateway of Kashmir Valley recorded a minimum of minus 8.2°C against minus 7.6°C on the previous night, he said. Pahalgam recorded a low of minus 8.6°C against minus 8.2°C on the previous night.
Kokernag, also in south Kashmir, recorded a minimum of minus 5.8°C against minus 5.8°C on the previous night. The famous tourist destination Gulmarg, the official said, recorded a low of minus 6.2°C against minus 6.0°C on the previous night.
As temperatures plunge, parts of the famous Dal Lake and several water bodies have begun to freeze, creating a picturesque yet stark winter landscape. People of Kashmir Valley are preparing for more frigid weather ahead as the Kashmir Valley endures these extreme conditions.
With the cold snap expected to persist, people in Kashmir Valley have been advised by authorities to take precautions to stay warm during this unprecedented winter chill.
