Jammu and Kashmir continues to reel under severe winter conditions with sub-zero temperatures, worsening air pollution, and sharply declining water levels. The prolonged dry spell, with no major snowfall or rain expected till the month-end, has compounded health and environmental concerns across the Valley.

BulletsIn

• Minimum temperatures stayed below freezing across the Kashmir Valley
• Srinagar recorded –3.6°C; Pahalgam –4.6°C; Gulmarg at 0°C
• Jammu region also cold: Jammu 8.5°C, Banihal 4.2°C, Bhaderwah 1.9°C
• Prolonged dry spell causing smog due to SPM mixing with low-lying fog
• Air Quality Index deteriorated, especially in and around Srinagar
• Rise in chest and respiratory ailments reported; COPD patients are most vulnerable
• Doctors advise covering face and neck, avoiding cold exposure mornings/evenings
• Water levels dropped sharply in rivers, lakes, streams, wells and springs
• The Jhelum River is nearly at its lowest levels due to a lack of rain and snow
• MeT Dept rules out major snowfall till month-end; Chillai Kalan begins Dec 21