Cold wave tightens grip on Kashmir and Ladakh; Leh records –4.2°C, Shopian sees season’s lowest

A sharp cold wave has tightened its grip on Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, pushing night temperatures below freezing in several areas and signalling an early onset of winter across the region. Leh recorded the lowest minimum temperature at –4.2°C, while Shopian in south Kashmir registered the coldest night of the season so far at –0.9°C.

According to meteorological data released on Saturday, the cold spell has affected several parts of the Kashmir Valley, with temperatures hovering around or below the freezing point. Pulwama recorded –0.3°C, while Pahalgam touched 0.0°C and Kukernag registered 0.2°C. Srinagar and Qazigund both recorded minimum temperatures of 2.0°C.

Other weather stations also reported chilly conditions, with Kupwara at 1.5°C, Gulmarg at 1.2°C, Srinagar Airport at 0.8°C, Sonamarg at 0.6°C, and Budgam and Konibal (Pampore) at 1.1°C each. Baramulla and Kulgam were relatively warmer at 3.7°C and 3.3°C, respectively.

In Ladakh, temperatures remained considerably lower. Besides Leh's –4.2°C, Kargil recorded –1.4°C, while Nubra Valley registered –0.9°C. Such sub-zero temperatures are typical for early November in the region, but the latest readings indicate a further intensification of the seasonal cold that began building in late October.

Why are temperatures falling?

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Meteorological Centre Srinagar attribute the cold conditions mainly to clear skies, dry continental air and radiational cooling under largely stable weather conditions.

A weak Western Disturbance affected the region earlier in the week, but its influence has largely faded, leaving dry weather across Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the latest forecast issued by the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, mainly dry weather is expected between November 6 and 9. Clear to partly cloudy skies are likely to keep night temperatures low, with further drops possible in some areas.

A fresh Western Disturbance is expected to approach the region on November 10–11. Light rain or snowfall is likely at scattered to many places, particularly in higher reaches, from the evening of November 10.

Cloudy conditions are expected on November 12–13, with light to moderate rainfall in the plains and snowfall over higher elevations at many places, particularly towards the evening of November 12.

Weather conditions are likely to improve on November 14–15, with partly cloudy skies and a reduction in precipitation activity.

Ladakh braces for further drop in temperatures

The weather pattern in Ladakh is expected to remain largely similar, although temperatures will continue to be considerably colder. Clear skies are forecast through much of the coming week, allowing night temperatures in Leh and surrounding areas to remain well below freezing.

Current observations show clear conditions in Leh, with daytime temperatures around 5–7°C and overnight lows near or below –4°C.

Light snowfall is possible over isolated high peaks and mountain passes later in the forecast period, although no major widespread snowfall event is currently indicated before mid-November.

Advisory for farmers and tourists

Meteorologists say the early-season cold wave is not unusual for the region. However, the rapid fall in temperatures below freezing in parts of the Valley's plains, particularly Shopian and Pulwama, suggests that winter conditions are setting in faster.

If the approaching Western Disturbance brings significant moisture, higher reaches could receive their first substantial snowfall of the season. Fresh snow cover could further intensify the cold by reflecting more sunlight and reducing daytime heating.

Farmers have been advised to protect remaining horticultural crops and orchard plants from frost. Tourists travelling to Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Ladakh have also been advised to carry heavy woollens, as temperatures can vary sharply between day and night.

Road conditions along higher mountain passes may deteriorate once snowfall begins around November 10–12. Authorities are expected to issue fresh advisories closer to the weather system's arrival.

With clear, cold nights already prevailing and another snow-bearing Western Disturbance expected by mid-November, winter is likely to deepen across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh over the coming weeks. While night temperatures in the Valley are expected to remain near or below freezing for several more days, Ladakh will continue to experience the intense cold typical of its high-altitude desert climate.