Ladakh, Jan 16 : Hanle in Ladakh recorded the lowest minimum temperature across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on Friday, plunging to minus 11.2 degrees Celsius, as severe cold conditions persisted in the high-altitude Changthang region.
Temperature data revealed that Hanle remained the coldest reported location in the region, significantly lower than other cold pockets. The sharp dip underscores the severity of winter in the trans Himalayan belt, where prolonged sub-zero nights are common during peak winter months.
Meteorologists attributed the extreme cold to Hanle’s high elevation, clear night skies, and dry atmospheric conditions, which lead to rapid heat loss after sunset. Such conditions typically cause temperatures to drop sharply during the night and early morning.
Locals continued to face harsh living conditions, with freezing nights impacting daily routines, water supply lines, and outdoor activities. The intense cold has also posed challenges for livestock and limited mobility in the remote area.
Officials said similar cold conditions are expected to continue in Hanle and neighbouring areas over the coming days, particularly during night and early morning hours, unless cloud cover or fresh snowfall moderates temperatures.