Winter has truly arrived in Srinagar with the season’s lowest temperature of minus 6 degrees Celsius recorded overnight. The city, often romanticized for its serene winters, now battles a severe cold spell that has caught many off guard.
Unlike previous years where heavy snowfall transformed the plains into a winter wonderland, this time around, snow has eluded the valley floors. Upper regions like Gulmarg and Sonamarg remain snow-clad paradises, but Srinagar and surrounding areas face dry, biting cold instead.
Local authorities have issued advisories for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children. Heating fuel demand has skyrocketed, straining supplies across the region. Farmers worry about frost damage to early crops, while tourism operators lament the lack of snow for ski season.
Weather patterns suggest a high-pressure system blocking moisture from reaching lower altitudes. Relief might come with a western disturbance expected mid-week, potentially bringing the much-needed snow to plains.
As dawn broke over Dal Lake, a thin layer of frost glittered across houseboats and gardens. Residents bundled in multiple layers navigate the crisp air, dreaming of warmer days ahead while appreciating winter’s stark beauty.
