Jammu and Kashmir Experiences First Sub-Zero Temperatures of the Season
Gulmarg and Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir recorded sub-zero temperatures, marking the seasons first cold snap.
Srinagar, October 25 (Daily Kiran) : Jammu and Kashmir’s Gulmarg and Pahalgam recorded their first sub-zero temperatures of the season on Sunday, October 25, 2026. The minimum temperature in Srinagar dropped to 2.9 degrees Celsius, which is 0.9 degrees below the seasonal average.
According to weather department officials, this marks the first time this season that Gulmarg and Pahalgam have fallen below freezing, with temperatures reaching minus 0.4 and minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, respectively. The officials also reported that other areas recorded varying temperatures: Jammu at 14.1 degrees Celsius, Katra at 12 degrees, Batote at 9.8 degrees, and Bhaderwah at 2.8 degrees.
The weather department anticipates generally dry conditions for the remainder of the month, although some light rain may occur in certain areas by October 28. The leaves of the Chinar trees are preparing to turn golden, rust, and eventually a vibrant red. Locals have begun to don light woolen clothing in response to the chill.
Schoolchildren are feeling the morning cold and have started wearing their winter uniforms. Recent snowfall in the Zoji La Pass and the Afarwat mountains in Gulmarg suggests that winter may arrive earlier this year.
Notably, several higher altitudes in Jammu and Kashmir experienced their first snowfall of the season just days ago. The Zoji La Pass, Razdan Pass, and Sinthan Top, among other mountainous areas, reported this seasonal milestone. Some young people remarked that they witnessed snowfall for the first time outside a cinema. Tourists were seen playing in the snow and dancing as the popular destinations were blanketed in a pristine white layer.
The snowfall is expected to increase water levels in various springs, mountain streams, lakes, and wells, providing ample water resources for the upcoming winter months.
