Srinagar, Dec 23, (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing a severe winter chill as temperatures continue to plummet across the UT, with Srinagar recording a maximum temperature of just 2.8°C today. The ongoing cold wave, marked by icy conditions, has intensified in both the Kashmir and Jammu regions.
In the Kashmir valley, cities and towns have been grappling with bone-chilling temperatures, with areas like Gulmarg recording the lowest maximum temperature of 1.8°C. The famed hill station of Pahalgam and Kupwara both reported maximum temperatures of 4.0°C, while Ganderbal and Sonamarg saw temperatures hover around the 2.6°C to 2.9°C range. Other towns, including Baramulla, Budgam, and Pulwama, experienced temperatures around 2.6°C to 4.0°C, signaling the arrival of harsh winter conditions.
On the other hand, the Jammu region has been relatively warmer but still felt the bite of winter, with Jammu city reaching a maximum of 15.
Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel0°C. Other areas such as Kathua and Samba recorded temperatures of 16.1°C and 16.8°C, respectively, while towns like Katra and Udhampur saw maximum temperatures near 12.8°C and 13.0°C. Some areas in the region, including Banihal and Bhaderwah, saw maximums around 8.4°C.
The harsh conditions have brought about significant challenges for locals, particularly in the Kashmir valley, where the 40-day Chillai Kalan period is in full swing. This marks the peak of winter in the region, often bringing with it freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy winds.
The chill in the air has also led to disruptions in daily life, with Shikara operators on Dal Lake facing tough conditions as icy waters impede their movement. Residents are bracing for more of the intense cold as the winter season deepens in the coming weeks.(KNS)