An extreme cold wave has further gripped Jammu & Kashmir, causing temperatures to plummet across the Union Territory and disrupting routine in various districts. As icy winds blow across the Valley and parts of the Jammu region, the weather department has warned that conditions are likely to worsen in the next few days.
Mercury Falls Below Freezing in Many Areas
There was a drastic decrease in night temperatures in the whole of Kashmir with most of the stations registering sub-zero temperatures. Srinagar experienced one of the lowest evenings of the season, whereas Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Kupwara recorded a temperature that was well below the freezing point. The people awoke to find ice-covered roofs and frozen water mains, which is normal in severe winters.
A very sharp dip was also felt in the higher-altitude areas like Banihal and Bhaderwah in the Jammu region, but it was partly relieved by the sunshine during the day.
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Freeze Disrupts Daily Life in the Valley
The cold wave has posed challenges to the residents, particularly in rural areas where heating facilities are fewer. Lines used to supply water at various points became frozen at night and residents had to use the available water. There was low visibility in the outskirts of Srinagar and along major road stretches due to early morning fog.
There was a significant delay in public transport services across most places as vehicles failed to start amid freezing temperatures. Markets were late, and attendance was sparse in the morning across schools and offices.
Tourist Destinations Draw Visitors Despite Chill
The tough environment did not stop people from visiting popular tourist destinations. The frosty and snow-covered Gulmarg was receiving a constant inflow of travellers who wanted to experience winter and enjoy it. Hotels also had increased occupancy with tourists coming to ski and participate in other seasonal activities.
Hoteliers in town believe that tourism is at its peak in winter, when it is cold outside, but they warn that the snowfall expected over the next few days will temporarily hamper access to the road.
Authorities on Alert, Advisory Issued
The government has encouraged citizens to exercise caution, especially the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions. Health officers have recommended that people should not spend a long time in cold or hugging in homes that are poorly ventilated, as they use heating sources.
The traffic department has cautioned drivers to be careful due to slippery roads, particularly on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, which is most affected by snowfall and landslides during winter.
Teams managing disasters are keeping a check of the conditions in avalanche-prone areas, and early warnings should be issued in case of high snowfall.
More Cold Days Ahead, Says Weather Office
The meteorological department states that the weather will remain below normal in a few days, with another western disturbance expected to affect weather patterns later in the week. Although there might be light snowfall in the high altitudes, no extensive snow or rain is foreseen in the short run.
Authorities believe that the further drop in nighttime temperatures may cause even worse frost conditions in the Valley, further complicating the situation and initiating the typical deep winter in the area.
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