Kashmir Surpasses Delhi’s Temperature: Unprecedented Warmth Hits Srinagar with Record-Breaking 15 Degrees

Press Trust of Kashmir

On Saturday, Kashmir witnessed an unusual turn of events as the maximum temperature soared to 15 degrees, surpassing Delhi’s climate. This marked the highest temperature recorded in Srinagar during January in the past two decades. However, this surprising warmth has left the Kashmir valley without its customary winter snowfall.

The absence of snow has set alarm bells ringing, particularly for those involved in the tourism industry. Concerns loom large as locals fear the adverse impact on the livelihoods of thousands dependent on winter tourism in the valley.

Officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) highlight a significant deficit in winter snowfall not only in Jammu and Kashmir but also in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh. The grim situation is expected to persist until Republic Day, with no active Western Disturbance or snowfall anticipated until January 25.

Sonam Lotus, Director of the IMD Leh Centre, painted a concerning picture based on satellite images, revealing the rapid melting of glaciers—a valuable natural resource for the region. Lotus emphasized the severity of the situation, expressing the likelihood that this trend will persist.

While the Kashmir valley grapples with the absence of snow, there was a glimmer of relief for the J&K North area, as Gurez valley experienced light snowfall yesterday. However, this isolated event does little to alleviate the broader concerns surrounding the uncharacteristically warm winter in Kashmir. The fate of the region’s tourism industry and the delicate balance of its ecosystem remain uncertain in the face of these unprecedented weather patterns.