Cold Intensifies in Kashmir Valley Following Snowfall

Srinagar, January 23: The Kashmir Valley is reeling under severe cold after recent snowfall led to a significant drop in temperatures, particularly during the night. The chilly conditions have made life challenging for residents and tourists alike, as the region braces for more cold days ahead.

Weather Forecast for Kashmir

The Meteorological Department has predicted dry weather across the valley until January 28, with only sporadic light rain and snow expected between January 29 and January 31 in select areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

Temperature Highlights

Srinagar

• The minimum temperature in Srinagar dropped to -2.0°C, compared to 0.6°C the previous night.
• Despite the drop, this temperature remains 0.3°C above the seasonal average for this time of year.

Gulmarg

• The ski resort in Baramulla district continues to be the coldest spot in the valley, with a minimum temperature of -7.5°C, improving slightly from -8.5°C the previous night.
• The recorded temperature is 0.9°C higher than the normal for this period.

Pahalgam

• The popular tourist destination recorded a further drop in temperature to -5.6°C, compared to -4.2°C the previous night.This is 1.3°C above the seasonal average for the region.

Other Key Locations

• Qazigund: The gateway to Kashmir recorded a temperature of -2.6°C, dropping from 1.6°C the previous night. This is 1.7°C above the normal for this period.
• Kokernag: The picnic spot in South Kashmir registered -1.6°C, down from 1.2°C the previous night. This temperature is 2.1°C higher than the average for this time of year.
• Kupwara: In North Kashmir, Kupwara saw a significant drop, recording -2.2°C compared to 1.2°C the previous night. This is still 0.5°C higher than the normal temperature for this season.

Impact on Daily Life

The freezing temperatures, while challenging for residents, are a boon for tourists flocking to the valley to experience its snow-clad beauty. Popular destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam remain hot spots for winter sports and leisure activities, despite the biting cold.