Zojila Freezes at -18°C as Kashmir, Jammu, and Ladakh brace for Winter’s Wrath
Srinagar: With winter tightening its grip, Kashmir, Jammu, and Ladakh are witnessing a significant fall in temperatures plunging below normal adding to the frost.The majestic Zojila Pass emerged as the coldest spot of the night at a staggering -18.0°C. Night temperatures in areas like Shopian were (-5.5°C), Pahalgam (-5.3°C) and Sonamarg (-4.9°C) offered no respite as the mercury dropped further, freezing streams.The picturesque meadows of Pulwama (-5.0°C) and Anantnag (-5.0°C) glistened under a thin frost, while urban hubs like Srinagar (-2.1°C) and Baramulla (-2.0°C) faced biting cold winds. The ski paradise of Gulmarg (-3.6°C) continued to attract adventurers, braving the sub-zero temperatures for its powdery snow and pristine slopes.In the Jammu region, winter’s chill was less severe but evident in high-altitude areas. Padder (-4.3°C) in the upper reaches recorded the coldest temperature, while the hill stations of Bhaderwah (1.0°C) and Banihal (1.2°C) shivered through frosty mornings. The plains of Jammu (8.6°C) and Kathua (8.7°C) provided a slight reprieve, though the cool breeze left residents bundling up in woolens.Meanwhile, Ladakh, known for its harsh winters, upheld its reputation. Kargil (-9.8°C) and Leh (-9.6°C) saw temperatures nosedive, their barren landscapes wrapped in icy stillness. The famed Drass Valley, often the coldest inhabited place in India, remains a mystery today as data remains unavailable.As winter tightens its icy grip across the region, locals prepare for harsher days ahead—(News Vibes of India)
