Srinagar, Dec 15 (JKNS): Cloud cover brought a slight improvement in night temperatures across parts of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, though cold and foggy conditions continued to dominate, with several areas of the Kashmir Valley still witnessing near-freezing and sub-zero minimums.
Dense fog also enveloped several parts of the Kashmir Valley, including Srinagar this morning, causing reduced visibility on roads. Drivers were seen cautiously navigating streets with fog lights switched on to ensure safety. Thick fog was also observed over Dal Lake and surrounding areas, adding to the wintry ambiance of the city.
According to data compiled by independent weather channel Kashmir Weather as per news agency JKNS, Srinagar recorded a low of 1.9°C, while Qazigund and Pahalgam registered 2.2°C each. Kupwara settled at 1.6°C, Kokernag at 2.4°C and Gulmarg at 1.0°C. Pampore recorded 0.5°C, Srinagar Airport 1.4°C, while Awantipora dipped below freezing at -0.8°C. Shopian also reported a sub-zero minimum of -0.1°C.
Other stations recorded Budgam at 1.0°C, Anantnag 1.3°C, Baramulla 0.9°C, Bandipora 2.7°C, Kulgam 2.5°C, Ganderbal 2.3°C and Sonamarg 1.9°C. Data for Pulwama and Zojila Pass was unavailable, while the Zethan Rafiabad station remained non-functional.
In the Jammu region, night temperatures remained comparatively higher. Jammu city recorded 11.4°C and Jammu Airport 11.6°C. Banihal logged 3.1°C, Batote and Ramban 8.3°C each, Katra 10.7°C, Bhaderwah 4.6°C, Kathua 9.4°C, while Udhampur and Samba recorded 7.2°C each. Rajouri settled at 5.4°C, Kishtwar at 8.0°C and Reasi at 9.6°C. Data for Doda was not available.
Ladakh continued to remain in the grip of freezing cold, with Leh recording a minimum temperature of -1.8°C, Kargil -1.2°C and Nubra Valley -0.1°C.
Despite the biting cold, tourists visiting Kashmir say the chill has not dampened their enthusiasm, as the scenic beauty continues to leave them mesmerised.
Speaking to media during early morning hours on Monday, a tourist shared that while temperatures are extremely low, the experience remains enjoyable, especially with the breathtaking view of Dal Lake adding to the charm.
The visitor said that snowfall is eagerly awaited, as snow is a major attraction drawing tourists to the Valley during winter. Many tourists echoed similar sentiments, saying that the cold weather feels worthwhile amid Kashmir’s natural beauty, and snowfall would make their visit even more memorable. (JKNS)
