Pahalgam, Gulmarg Record Season’s First Sub-Zero Temperatures as Cold Intensifies in Kashmir
Srinagar, October 25: The popular tourist destinations of Pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded the season’s first sub-zero minimum temperatures, with the mercury dropping to minus 0.3 degrees Celsius and minus 0.4 degrees Celsius, respectively, the Meteorological Department said on Sunday.
According to the latest data released by the department, the temperature drop marks the arrival of colder conditions in the higher-altitude tourist resorts of Kashmir.
Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 2.9 degrees Celsius, while Qazigund registered 0.0 degrees Celsius.
Kokernag recorded a minimum temperature of 3.4 degrees Celsius, whereas Banihal in the Jammu division registered 3.7 degrees Celsius.
Maximum Temperatures Remain Below Normal
Maximum temperatures recorded on October 24 remained below the seasonal average at most monitoring stations across Jammu and Kashmir.
Gulmarg recorded the largest departure from normal, with its maximum temperature settling 5.6 degrees Celsius below the seasonal average. Kokernag followed with a maximum temperature 5.2 degrees Celsius below normal.
The drop in temperatures reflects the strengthening chill across the region as autumn progresses towards winter.
Dry Weather Forecast Until October 31
The Meteorological Department has forecast generally dry weather across Jammu and Kashmir until October 31.
However, weather conditions are expected to change between November 1 and 3, when generally cloudy skies are likely across the region.
The department has also indicated the possibility of light rain in the plains and light snowfall at isolated places in the higher reaches during this period.
Residents and tourists, particularly those travelling to higher-altitude destinations, are advised to keep track of the latest weather updates as temperatures continue to fall.
With Pahalgam and Gulmarg recording the season’s first sub-zero temperatures, colder conditions are becoming increasingly evident across the Kashmir Valley.