Srinagar :- The Kashmir Valley is currently experiencing a severe cold wave that has significantly disrupted normal life, with South Kashmir particularly affected according to the Weather Department’s Tuesday report.
The region is witnessing a dramatic drop in temperatures, with several areas recording well below freezing temperatures. Shopian recorded -8.8°C, while Anantnag and Pulwama both registered -8.3°C. Kulgam and Kokernag also saw severe cold conditions with temperatures plummeting to -6.7°C and -8.5°C respectively.The extreme cold has caused water sources, rivers, and even drinking water pipes to freeze, creating significant challenges for residents.
The Weather Department has forecast a further sharp decline in nighttime temperatures next week, with the absence of western disturbances likely to prolong the cold wave conditions in Kashmir.In Srinagar, the capital city, the minimum temperature dropped to -6.6°C late Monday night, a significant decrease from Sunday’s -4.6°C, and 4.2°C below the seasonal average.
The freezing conditions have led to the partial freezing of Dal Lake and the closure of drinking water pipes, severely impacting people’s livelihoods.The tourist destination of Pahalgam emerged as the coldest spot in the valley, with nighttime temperatures falling to -7.8°C, a substantial drop from the previous day’s -4.9°C and 2.6°C below normal. These harsh winter conditions continue to pose significant challenges for the local population, affecting their daily routines and basic necessities.