Kashmir: Kashmir is enduring its most severe November cold spell since 2007, with temperatures plunging below freezing across the region, meteorological officials confirmed Friday.
Srinagar Sees Sharpest Temperature Decline
The capital city recorded minus 4.5 degrees Celsius on Thursday night, marking the coldest conditions of the current season. This represents a marginal drop from the previous night’s minus 4.4 degrees Celsius and sits more than four degrees below seasonal averages.
Srinagar’s night temperatures have declined steadily over recent days. The current cold snap approaches the November 28, 2007 record of minus 4.8 degrees Celsius but remains well above the all-time November low of minus 7.8 degrees Celsius, recorded in 1934.
Widespread Freezing Conditions Across Region
Multiple weather monitoring stations throughout the valley have registered their lowest November readings in 17 years, officials reported.
Konibal in Pulwama district recorded the valley’s coldest temperature Thursday night at minus 6 degrees Celsius. Qazigund, the southern gateway to Kashmir, registered minus 4.4 degrees Celsius, while Kupwara in the north reached minus 4.8 degrees Celsius.
Tourist destinations were similarly affected, with Pahalgam resort dropping to minus 5.5 degrees Celsius. The ski resort of Gulmarg recorded minus 1.4 degrees Celsius, and Kokernag in south Kashmir registered minus 1.8 degrees Celsius.
Prolonged Cold Spell Forecast
The meteorological department has issued forecasts indicating predominantly dry weather conditions will persist across Kashmir until December 10. Officials warned that night temperatures may decline further during this period, potentially intensifying the cold wave.
The extended freeze comes as residents prepare for the traditional harsh winter months ahead. Kashmir typically experiences its coldest temperatures between December and February, when the valley often remains snowbound for extended periods.
The current weather pattern follows typical pre-winter conditions in the Himalayan region, though the intensity and early arrival of sub-zero temperatures have been notable this season. Authorities continue monitoring conditions as the valley transitions into full winter.
