Severe Cold Wave Grips Jammu and Kashmir as Temperatures Plummet

Jammu and Kashmir is currently enduring a harsh cold wave, with temperatures in Srinagar dropping to minus 4 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Department forecasts no significant snowfall until January 20, raising concerns about water reservoirs for the summer months. Residents are coping with the extreme cold by wearing traditional woollen garments and layering up. Health experts advise caution against strenuous activities in such frigid conditions. The cold spell, which began on December 21, is expected to last until January 30, leaving many to wonder if they will see significant snowfall this winter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 6, 2026, 13:08 IST

Cold Wave Continues in Jammu and Kashmir

On January 6, Srinagar experienced a severe cold wave, with temperatures dipping to minus 4 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Department has indicated that no significant Western Disturbance is expected to impact the region until January 20, suggesting that the chances of substantial snowfall are low during this period.

The minimum temperatures recorded were minus 4 degrees Celsius in Srinagar, minus 8.6 degrees Celsius in Gulmarg, and minus 6.8 degrees Celsius in Pahalgam. In Jammu, temperatures were slightly higher, with a minimum of 5.2 degrees Celsius, while Katra recorded 4.8 degrees Celsius, Batote 1.7 degrees Celsius, Banihal 1.5 degrees Celsius, and Bhaderwah at minus 2.2 degrees Celsius.

As the weak winter sun struggled to provide warmth, water taps in Srinagar and other areas of the Valley froze in the morning. The intense cold period, which began on December 21, is set to last until January 30. Unless weather conditions improve, the Valley's plains may miss out on their first significant snowfall of the season until after January 20.

Snowfall occurring after January 30 will not adequately replenish the vital water reservoirs in the mountainous regions, as the heavy snowfall during the Chillai Kalan period is crucial for sustaining water bodies through the summer.

To cope with the extreme cold, residents are donning the traditional 'Pheran', a woollen garment, and layering themselves with additional woollen clothing for warmth. Older and middle-aged Kashmiris typically wear woollen caps and mufflers, while younger individuals often believe that staying active can help them withstand the cold.

Health professionals have warned against engaging in strenuous activities during such frigid conditions, as rapid changes in body temperature can be dangerous. Elders are advised to remain indoors until after 10 a.m., as mornings are particularly cold during winter.