The Kashmir valley is currently experiencing an intense coldwave, with temperatures plummeting to a chilling low. On Monday, the surface of the iconic Dal Lake froze as the cold weather gripped the region. The minimum temperature in Srinagar was recorded at -7°C, while the maximum temperature reached just 7°C, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
Visuals from the area captured locals gathered around bonfires, bundled up in warm clothing to shield themselves from the severe cold. One local resident, speaking to ANI, expressed concern over the extreme temperatures: “The weather has become very cold, our hands have started freezing, and the Dal lake has frozen. This is the first time the city has experienced such a temperature.”
Another resident warned that the current conditions could lead to snowfall in the city. “There is a very high chance that there might be snowfall here. It is very cold right now. People should take all measures to protect themselves,” said the resident.
The IMD has issued a forecast predicting a continued cold wave in Jammu and Kashmir starting December 24, with the possibility of further dip in temperatures. The region has already been grappling with the effects of the cold, including disruptions in essential services.
In response to the severe weather, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah made the decision to cancel his scheduled programs in Jammu. He announced his plans to oversee the functioning of power and other departments in Srinagar to manage the difficulties arising from the cold spell, particularly with water and electricity supply. “In light of the severe cold spell in the Kashmir valley and the resultant difficulties with water and electricity supply, I have decided to cancel my forthcoming programs in Jammu and station myself in Srinagar for the next week,” Abdullah wrote on social media while traveling to Srinagar from Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
The Chief Minister assured that he would reschedule the affected programs and make up to those impacted by the changes in his itinerary. The region is bracing for continued challenges as the coldwave intensifies in the coming days.