Kashmir reeled under an intensified cold wave as night temperatures fell sharply across the valley, officials said on Tuesday.

Srinagar recorded a minimum of –3.7°C, a steep drop from the previous night’s –2.4°C and 3.1°C below normal for this time of year. Most areas reported below-normal temperatures as the winter chill deepened.
In south Kashmir, Qazigund touched –3.6°C, while Kupwara in the north recorded the same. Kokernag remained relatively milder at –0.5°C.
Tourist spots and upper reaches saw harsher conditions:
Pahalgam: –4.8°C Gulmarg: –2.5°C Pulwama: –5.1°C (coldest in J&K)
The Meteorological Department forecast dry weather until December 12, with light rain or snowfall possible in isolated higher reaches from December 13.
Residents are preparing for ‘Chillai Kalan’, the 40-day harshest winter phase beginning December 21, marked by severe cold and persistent sub-zero temperatures.