SRINAGAR: The minimum temperatures recorded across Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Ladakh, varied significantly, with several places witnessing sub-zero temperatures. In the Kashmir region, Gulmarg recorded the lowest at -2.5°C, followed by Khudwani at -2.7°C and Pulwama at -1.7°C. Srinagar recorded 1.9°C, while other areas such as Qazigund (-0.1°C), Pahalgam (-0.8°C), and Sonamarg (-0.7°C) also remained below freezing. Bandipora recorded the highest temperature in the valley at 2.4°C.
In the Jammu region, the minimum temperatures were relatively higher, with Jammu city recording 11.2°C, Katra 10.3°C, and Udhampur 8.0°C. The coldest place in the region was Padder at -0.7°C. Banihal recorded 3.3°C, while Batote and Kishtwar both stood at 7.7°C.
In Ladakh, Drass remained the coldest at -7.5°C, followed by Leh at -5.9°C and Kargil at -4.9°C.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir is set to experience a week-long wet spell starting January 29, with a series of Western Disturbances expected until February 5. According to the Meteorological Department, a fresh spell of light rain and snow is expected at scattered places on the night of January 29 and the morning of January 30. On January 31, precipitation is likely at isolated places, while February 1 and 2 may witness light rain and snow at scattered to fairly widespread locations.
Further, on February 3, generally cloudy weather is expected, with a possibility of light snow over higher reaches. Light rain and snow at scattered places are also anticipated on February 4 and 5. The minimum temperature is expected to rise slightly from January 29, while the maximum temperature may dip and settle around normal levels.
Notably, Jammu and Kashmir has been experiencing a prolonged dry spell, with the first three weeks of January recording a significant 81 per cent rainfall deficit. -(KL)
