Sub-zero nights return after brief lull

Srinagar, Dec 16: Sub-zero night temperatures returned to Kashmir after a three-night gap, as dense fog and biting cold continued to grip the Valley on Tuesday. Meanwhile, meteorologists forecast light snowfall in the higher reaches later this week.

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar said shallow to moderate fog is likely to persist at many places in the Kashmir division and at isolated locations in the Jammu region, affecting visibility during late-night and early-morning hours.

After a brief respite, night temperatures fell sharply across Kashmir.

Srinagar recorded a minimum of minus 1.8 degrees Celsius, nearly four degrees lower than Monday night’s 1.9 degrees Celsius, officials said.

A thick layer of fog enveloped the city and other low-lying areas, particularly around water bodies, during the early hours.

Qazigund in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 2.2 degrees Celsius, while Kupwara in north Kashmir settled at minus 1.8 degrees Celsius.

Kokernag recorded a minimum of minus 0.6 degrees Celsius.

Gulmarg ski resort was the only place in Kashmir where night temperatures remained above freezing, recording a low of 0.5 degrees Celsius.

According to the Meteorological Department forecast, the weather across Jammu and Kashmir is expected to remain partly cloudy from December 16 to 17.

From December 18 to 19, a slight change in weather is expected, with very light snowfall anticipated at isolated, higher reaches in north and central Kashmir, while the rest of Kashmir remains generally cloudy.

From December 20 to 21, the Kashmir division is likely to witness partly to generally cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light snowfall over higher elevations.

Plain areas of Jammu and Kashmir may receive light rain during the afternoon.