Jammu and Kashmir is gripped by a severe cold wave as temperatures plummet across the region. While higher reaches like Sonamarg and Sinthan Pass remain blanketed under fresh snow, the plains of Kashmir, including Srinagar, are experiencing biting cold without any snowfall. This unusual weather pattern has intensified the chill, with minimum temperatures dropping several degrees below freezing.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that Kashmir Valley is under the influence of a Western Disturbance, bringing precipitation to upper areas but sparing the lowlands. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 3.4 degrees Celsius, while other key locations like Pahalgam hit minus 6.8 degrees and Gulmarg minus 5.2 degrees. In Jammu division, Katra shivered at 3.2 degrees, and Banihal Pass saw minus 5.5 degrees amid light snow.
Residents are facing hardships due to the harsh weather. Water bodies like Dal Lake have frozen partially, impacting shikara operators. Houseboats are anchored, and daily life has slowed as people huddle indoors. Power supply disruptions and frozen pipelines are common complaints, exacerbating the situation.
Experts predict the cold spell to persist for another week, with possibilities of light snow in plains towards the weekend. Authorities have issued advisories for travelers on the Srinagar-Jammu highway, urging caution due to black ice and low visibility. Tourists flock to Gulmarg for skiing despite the freeze, but lower areas see reduced footfall.
This extended winter is attributed to climate patterns influenced by La Nina effects. Locals hope for snowfall in plains to replenish water sources and boost the fragile economy dependent on tourism and agriculture. As the region braces for more chills, relief seems distant, testing the resilience of its people.