The Kashmir Valley has plunged into a deep freeze, with several locations recording sub-zero temperatures early Thursday morning. The picturesque tourist destination of Sonamarg emerged as the coldest recorded spot in the region, with the mercury dropping to a biting minus 5.8 degrees Celsius.
Widespread Chill Grips the Region
According to data from the meteorological department, the cold wave was not isolated to Sonamarg. The summer capital, Srinagar, also experienced a severe drop, recording a low of minus 1.2 degrees Celsius. This significant dip below the freezing point has transformed the landscape, with frost covering much of the valley.
Other parts of Kashmir reported similarly frigid conditions. The famous ski-resort of Gulmarg registered a temperature of minus 2.0 degrees Celsius. In the southern part of the valley, the town of Qazigund, often considered the gateway to Kashmir, recorded a low of minus 1.4 degrees Celsius. The mercury in Pahalgam, another key tourist hub, settled at minus 1.0 degrees Celsius.
Contrast with Jammu and Forecast Ahead
While Kashmir shivered, the conditions in the Jammu region presented a stark contrast. Jammu city itself recorded a minimum temperature of 12.8 degrees Celsius, which is close to the normal range for this time of year. The town of Katra, the base for pilgrims visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine, saw a low of 11.6 degrees Celsius.
The meteorological forecast indicates that this dry weather pattern is likely to continue over the coming days. No major precipitation, in the form of rain or snow, is expected across the Union Territory in the immediate future. This extended period of dry cold raises concerns for horticulture and agriculture, which often depend on timely winter snowfall for irrigation and maintaining soil moisture.
Implications and Local Impact
The sudden and intense drop in temperatures has immediate effects on daily life. Residents are relying heavily on traditional methods like kangris (portable heaters) and hamams (heated rooms) to keep warm. The cold snap also impacts water supply lines, with increased instances of freezing and bursting pipes reported in some areas.
For the tourism sector, the clear skies and frosty conditions present a double-edged sword. While the chilly weather enhances the winter charm for visitors, the absence of fresh snowfall in Gulmarg and other spots may disappoint tourists seeking winter sports. The continued dry spell is being closely monitored by farmers and orchard owners, as a prolonged lack of moisture can adversely affect the dormant fruit trees, particularly apple and almond.
The meteorological department continues to advise residents to take necessary precautions against the cold, especially during the early morning and late night hours when temperatures are at their lowest.
