Srinagar shivers at minus 6.6 degrees Celsius as cold grips Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 24: The Kashmir Valley continues to reel under the icy grip of Chillai Kalan, the harshest 40-day period of winter, as temperatures plummeted across the region on Day 4.According to the Kashmir weather forecast, Srinagar recorded a bone-chilling low of -6.6°C, marking one of the coldest nights of the season. Tourist hotspots Pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded minimum temperatures of -7.8°C and -1.9°C, respectively, with Gulmarg offering a slightly less severe respite for visitors.In south Kashmir, a severe cold wave continues to dominate, with Shopian freezing at -8.8°C, the lowest temperature in the Valley. Anantnag and Pulwama both recorded a freezing -8.3°C, while Kulgam reported -6.7°C.Notable temperatures across other districts tell a similar, if not identical, tale. Budgam and Ganderbal saw the mercury drop to -7.0°C and -6.5°C, respectively, while the northern districts of Bandipora and Baramulla recorded -6.4°C and -6.0°C. Meanwhile, Khudwani registered a temperature of -7.1°C.The biting cold has left water bodies partially frozen and roads dangerously slippery, adding to the challenges faced by residents.As per the weather advisory, people are advised to take necessary precautions.