Cold wave conditions continued across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on Friday, with several places in the Kashmir Valley recording sub-zero temperatures, officials said.
Pulwama emerged as the coldest spot, hitting a low of minus 4.6°C, followed by Shopian at minus 3.9°C. Srinagar recorded minus 1.5°C, while the airport registered minus 2.8°C. South Kashmir’s tourist hub, Pahalgam, dropped to minus 2.6°C, and Gulmarg in north Kashmir saw minus 2.3°C. Other areas like Anantnag and Awantipora recorded minus 2.8°C each. Kupwara and Bandipora remained slightly warmer at minus 1.4°C and minus 0.7°C, respectively, while Baramulla and Ganderbal recorded just above freezing temperatures.
In Jammu, minimum temperatures stayed above freezing, with Jammu city at 4.7°C, Banihal 2.9°C, Bhaderwah 2.0°C, Udhampur 3.0°C, and Kathua 3.8°C.
Ladakh remained the coldest region, with Leh at minus 8.8°C, Hanle at minus 11.2°C, Kargil minus 8.3°C, and Nubra Valley minus 7.1°C.
Meteorologists have forecast a Western Disturbance affecting the region from Friday afternoon. Light snowfall is expected in upper reaches such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, as well as across mountain passes. The plains of Kashmir Valley may remain cloudy, with isolated rain or very light snowfall possible in some areas.
Director of the Meteorological Department, Mukhtar Ahmad, urged residents and travelers to stay cautious as cold conditions persist and weather conditions may affect road and air travel.
Officials also warned that the ongoing cold could disrupt daily life in the valley, especially for the elderly and those living in remote areas.
