Winter descends upon J&K; Srinagar records season's first sub-zero temperature
What's the story
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded its first sub-zero temperature of the season. The minimum temperature dipped to -0.1 degrees Celsius, indicating the arrival of a harsh winter in the region. Residents woke up to see a thin layer of frost on vehicles and rooftops, with houseboats on Dal Lake enveloped in mist.
Freezing forecast
Pahalgam, Shopian were the coldest places
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded widespread freezing conditions across the Kashmir Valley. Several weather stations in the region recorded sub-zero temperatures. Pahalgam and Shopian were the coldest places, both recording -3.2 degrees Celsius. Other popular tourist destinations were equally chilly, with Gulmarg recording a crisp -0.2 degrees Celsius temperature.
Milder weather
Authorities have advised residents to take precautions
In contrast, the Jammu region has been relatively warmer, with Jammu city recording a temperature of 11.5 degrees Celsius. A local shopkeeper in Srinagar's Lal Chowk area said, "This is just the beginning; nights will get colder." Authorities have advised residents to take precautions against cold-related illnesses, especially among vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Weather forecast
IMD attributes cold weather to north-westerly winds
A local Met official told Deccan Herald that the temperature drop was slightly ahead of the usual pattern, signalling the beginning of sustained winter conditions. "Frost and foggy mornings are expected in the coming days, but there is no forecast of major snowfall yet," he was quoted as saying. No significant precipitation is expected in the next 48 hours. However, a weak system may bring light snow to higher reaches by mid-week.