Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD: The ongoing cold wave has intensified across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, with temperatures plunging to extreme lows, disrupting daily life and leaving residents braving harsh conditions.
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded a freezing -5.5°C, adding to the region’s winter hardships. Meanwhile, Zojila Pass emerged as the coldest location, plummeting to a bone-numbing -24.0°C.
In Kashmir, popular tourist destinations like Sonamarg and Pahalgam recorded frigid lows of -6.6°C and -6.4°C, respectively, while Gulmarg, the renowned skiing hub, settled at -5.2°C. Severe cold gripped Pulwama and Khudwani, which registered -6.1°C and -6.5°C, respectively.
Jammu experienced relatively milder conditions, though temperatures dipped significantly in certain areas. Banihal and Bhaderwah recorded near-freezing temperatures of 1.5°C and 1.4°C, while the plains saw some relief, with Jammu city at 5.8°C. However, Samba stood out with a rare chill of 1.0°C, the lowest in the region.
In Ladakh, the icy conditions of Drass lived up to its reputation, recording a biting -22.5°C. Nearby, Leh and Kargil experienced freezing temperatures of -11.7°C and -14.3°C, respectively.
The extreme cold has disrupted water supplies and limited outdoor activities across the region. Authorities have advised residents to take precautions as the cold wave is expected to persist in the coming days.(DD)