Winter's Icy Grip Tightens on Kashmir Valley
The Kashmir Valley has been plunged into a deep freeze as winter intensifies across the region. According to recent meteorological data, Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded its coldest night of the season with temperatures dropping to a bone-chilling -3.2 degrees Celsius. This significant temperature drop marks the most severe cold the city has experienced this winter season.
Southern Kashmir Bears the Brunt
While Srinagar shivered at -3.2°C, the southern parts of the valley experienced even more extreme conditions. Shopian in south Kashmir emerged as the coldest recorded place in the entire Valley, with the mercury plunging to a staggering -5.1 degrees Celsius. This reading was recorded on the morning of November 24, 2025, indicating the rapid intensification of winter conditions.
Close on Shopian's heels was Pulwama, another district in south Kashmir, where the minimum temperature remained five degrees below the freezing point. The consistent sub-zero temperatures across these regions signal that the harsh Kashmiri winter has well and truly set in, affecting daily life and agricultural activities.
Early Winter Pattern Raises Concerns
The recording of such low temperatures in late November has raised concerns among meteorological experts and local residents alike. The early onset of severe cold conditions could have significant implications for various sectors including:
- Agriculture: Early frost could damage winter crops
- Daily Commute: Icy roads creating hazardous travel conditions
- Energy Consumption: Increased demand for heating amid power shortages
- Health: Rising cases of respiratory illnesses and cold-related ailments
Local authorities have issued advisories for residents, particularly in high-altitude areas, to take necessary precautions against the cold wave. The meteorological department continues to monitor the situation closely, with forecasts indicating that these cold conditions are likely to persist in the coming days.
