TDD Correspondent
Srinagar, (TDD): The icy grip of winter has tightened its hold over Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh further with temperatures plunging to freezing levels across the region.
Zojila Pass recorded an extreme low of -22.0°C, making it the coldest spot, while Srinagar shivered at -3.4°C as the cold wave intensified.
In Kashmir, Shopian emerged as one of the coldest inhabited areas with a minimum temperature of -6.1°C. Other significant lows included Pahalgam at -4.8°C, Pulwama at -5.3°C, and Anantnag at -5.1°C. Popular tourist destinations Gulmarg and Sonamarg registered -3.8°C and -3.4°C, respectively, adding to the region’s snow-laden allure.
The Jammu region experienced relatively moderate but chilly conditions, with Jammu city at 6.6°C. Colder areas included Banihal at 1.8°C, Padder at 0.3°C, and Samba at 2.2°C, while Katra, the base for Vaishno Devi pilgrims, recorded 8.4°C, the region’s warmest.
In Ladakh, the cold was more biting, with Kargil at -11.2°C and Leh at -10.5°C, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most frigid regions in the country.
With the cold wave expected to persist and temperatures likely to drop further, authorities have advised residents to stay prepared for frost and icy conditions. Despite the freezing temperatures, tourists continue to flock to destinations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg, drawn by the region’s pristine snow-clad beauty.
The sharp drop in mercury marks the peak of winter in the region, leaving locals bracing for harsher days ahead. (TDD)