Srinagar: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar warned of plummeting night temperatures across Jammu and Kashmir until January 10, with minimums dipping several degrees below normal amid dry cold wave conditions. Jammu plains face dense to very dense fog spells during nights and mornings till January 11, potentially slashing visibility to under 50 metres and disrupting travel.
MeT Director Mukhtar Ahmad predicted sustained cold wave in Kashmir Valley plains alongside intensified fog over Jammu division plains, advising caution for commuters and outdoor workers. Daytime highs hover around 19 degrees Celsius in Jammu and 7 degrees Celsius in Srinagar today, but nights could plunge to 6 degrees Celsius in Jammu and minus 3 degrees Celsius Valley wide by January 10. No major precipitation expected, ensuring prolonged dry spell with low humidity exacerbating chill factors.
The forecast signals peak winter severity, following recent night chills where Srinagar logged minus 2.7 degrees Celsius and Jammu 5.8 degrees Celsius. Valley higher reaches like Gulmarg face sub zero dips to minus 8 degrees Celsius, ideal for skiing yet risky for unprepared tourists. Health experts urge vulnerable groups to layer clothing, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion amid respiratory illness spikes from poor air trapped under fog layers.
Authorities activated fog lights on highways, urged slow driving, and prepared shelters for homeless in fog hit zones. Flight delays likely at Srinagar and Jammu airports during low visibility windows. MeT forecast extension beyond January 10 remains tentative, pending western disturbance activity. Residents advised monitoring local updates as prolonged cold risks frostbite and livestock losses in rural pockets. This weather pattern underscores Kashmir's harsh winter, demanding adaptive measures for safety and normalcy.
