Kashmir reels under intensified cold wave as temperatures plummet further

SRINAGAR, Dec 3: Winter tightened its grip over the Kashmir Valley as temperatures dipped sharply below the freezing point, deepening the cold wave and bringing dense fog that shrouded large parts of the region, officials said on Wednesday.

Srinagar witnessed one of the season’s coldest nights, with the mercury plunging to minus 4.4 degrees Celsius on Tuesday night. This marked a significant drop from the previous night’s low of minus 2.5 degrees Celsius, signalling the rapid onset of harsh winter conditions.

A thick, lingering fog blanketed Srinagar and several other areas, reducing visibility and creating an icy stillness across the valley. The fog was particularly dense around lakes, rivers and other water bodies, where moisture-laden air intensified the freezing effect.

Officials said the sharp drop in temperature is expected to continue in the coming days as the region gradually moves toward the peak winter phase known as Chillai Kalan, which begins later this month. They advised residents to exercise caution during early-morning travel due to poor visibility and slippery surfaces.