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Northern India is reeling under a severe cold wave as temperatures continue to plummet across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that the cold wave will likely persist for at least a week, with fresh spells of scattered snow and rain expected till January 3.
Jammu and Kashmir: A Deep Freeze
Temperatures have dropped significantly in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Gulmarg, the renowned skiing hub in north Kashmir, recorded a bone-chilling low of -10°C on Monday, a two-degree drop from the previous night. Similarly, Pahalgam, the picturesque south Kashmir town serving as the base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra, saw its mercury dip to -9.2°C from -8.5°C the previous night.
The valley’s capital, Srinagar, also felt the bite of the cold wave, with the night temperature dropping to -0.9°C, slightly above the seasonal average. Other parts of the valley, including Qazigund—the gateway town to Kashmir—experienced temperatures as low as -2.8°C. Konibal in Parampore logged a minimum of -1.4°C.
While the rest of the Kashmir Valley enjoyed a brief respite from harsh winter conditions earlier, the return of subzero temperatures and frosty nights signals the intensification of the cold spell.
Himachal Pradesh: Snow and Icy Winds
The situation is equally severe in Himachal Pradesh, where temperatures have remained below normal for three consecutive days. Higher altitudes, including tourist favourites like Kalpa and Kufri, witnessed significant snowfall, creating a winter wonderland and disrupting daily life. Over the weekend, Kalpa and Kufri recorded the highest precipitation in the state.
Other parts of Himachal Pradesh, such as Narakanda and Keylong, also reported fresh snowfall, adding to the icy conditions. These areas have become magnets for tourists seeking a winter getaway, but the freezing temperatures and slippery roads have posed challenges for locals and visitors.
IMD Advisory and Precautions
The IMD has advised residents and tourists in affected regions to take precautions against the severe cold. The department has also cautioned about potential disruptions in travel due to snow-covered roads and reduced visibility in hilly areas.
Farmers have been advised to protect their crops from frost, and residents have been urged to ensure adequate heating in their homes while avoiding overreliance on open fires, which could lead to health risks or accidents.
Tourism Amid Cold Wave
Winter tourism remains in full swing despite the freezing conditions in the Himalayan region. With its pristine slopes, Gulmarg has been attracting skiing enthusiasts from across the country and beyond. Similarly, Pahalgam’s snow-covered landscapes continue to draw tourists eager to experience Kashmir’s serene beauty during winter.
Himachal Pradesh’s popular destinations like Kufri and Kalpa are also bustling, with visitors enjoying the snowfall. However, local authorities ensure safety measures are in place to prevent accidents on slippery roads and paths.
Broader Impact of Cold Wave
The cold wave has brought mixed blessings to the region. On the one hand, snowfall is crucial for replenishing water resources and boosting tourism, and it is a key economic driver for states like Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. On the other hand, the extreme weather conditions have added to residents’ hardships, particularly those in remote areas.
The cold poses significant health risks for the elderly and young children, ranging from hypothermia to respiratory issues. Medical professionals have urged residents to stay warm and indoors as much as possible during peak cold hours.
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