Srinagar, : Cold wave conditions intensified across Kashmir as night temperatures plunged sharply below the freezing point at most places in the valley, while dense fog settled over Dal Lake and other water bodies early Sunday, the Meteorological Department said.
Open skies and calm winds allowed temperatures to fall further, triggering widespread frost formation and reducing visibility in several areas. Thick fog enveloped Dal Lake, Wular Lake, Anchar, Nigeen, and adjoining belts, giving Srinagar a severe winter chill and slowing morning movement.
Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of minus 4.4ยฐC on Saturday night, down from minus 3.1ยฐC the previous night. The reading remained just above this seasonโs coldest night, when the mercury plunged to minus 4.5ยฐC on Thursday.
The cold wave was more pronounced in south Kashmir, where Shopian reported the lowest temperature in the valley at minus 6.6ยฐC. Across the valley, most stations recorded sub-zero temperatures: Qazigund, the gateway to Kashmir, registered minus 3.0ยฐC, Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded minus 5.0ยฐC, and Kokernag settled at minus 1.2ยฐC.
Tourist destinations also witnessed a sharp drop. Pahalgam recorded a low of minus 5.6ยฐC, while the ski resort Gulmarg touched minus 1.4ยฐC. With freezing temperatures persisting, frost formed on bridges, vehicles, and stretches of road near lakes and streams.
Director of MeT, Dr. Mukhtar, said the fog cover, particularly around Dal Lake and other water bodies, is expected to continue during early morning hours due to moisture trapped near the surface.
โLimited visibility may affect movement along key routes, especially Boulevard Road and areas near Bemina, Habak, and Nishat,โ he added.
Dr. Mukhtar noted that the ongoing dry spell and clear skies are likely to keep night temperatures low across the valley.
โCold wave conditions will persist in the coming days as no major Western Disturbance is expected,โ he said, adding that mainly dry weather is forecast over Kashmir until December 10. He further warned that colder nights and foggy mornings are likely to continue, especially in areas bordering lakes and wetlands.
