DD Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD):A severe cold wave has gripped Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, with Srinagar recording a biting -4.8°C, disrupting daily life across the region. The freezing temperatures have impacted both urban and rural areas, raising concerns about essential services during this harsh winter.
In Kashmir, Qazigund recorded -5.4°C, while the picturesque Pahalgam and Gulmarg froze at -8.4°C and -7.4°C, respectively. Sonamarg emerged as the coldest location in the valley, registering a bone-chilling -9.3°C. Other districts such as Pulwama (-5.8°C), Shopian (-7.9°C), and Larnoo (-8.8°C) are also reeling under sub-zero temperatures.
Kupwara, Budgam, Bandipora, Kokernag, and Baramulla saw lows between -3.4°C and -4.7°C, while Khudwani recorded -6.6°C. Reports from Anantnag are yet to arrive.
In the Jammu region, temperatures were relatively milder, with Jammu city recording 6.0°C and Katra 6.8°C. However, Banihal (-1.5°C), Bhaderwah (-0.7°C), and Padder (-8.1°C) experienced sharp drops. Other areas, including Ramban (4.5°C), Reasi (4.7°C), and Kathua (6.3°C), saw moderate cold.
Ladakh faced extreme winter conditions, with Leh dropping to -12.2°C and Kargil to -13.7°C. Drass, known as one of the coldest inhabited places in the world, recorded an unbearable -22.0°C.
The icy conditions have caused frozen water pipes, slippery roads, and transportation issues. The increased reliance on traditional heating methods has also driven up the demand for firewood and kerosene. Authorities have urged residents to take precautions, particularly during the night and early morning when frost poses the greatest risk.
The Meteorological Department has forecast no major weather disturbances in the coming days, though temperatures may continue to drop in some areas. Residents are advised to stay warm and remain vigilant as the cold wave persists. (DD)