Cold wave conditions in Kashmir have worsened, pushing minimum temperatures well below freezing, officials reported on Sunday, January 11, 2026. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 5.2°C on Saturday night, slightly warmer than the previous night's minus 5.7°C. The region’s coldest night this season was on Thursday, with temperatures dipping to minus 6°C. Shopian in South Kashmir was the coldest place with a chilling minus 8.6°C. Pahalgam, a tourist spot and base camp for the Amarnath yatra, logged minus 7.6°C. Gulmarg ski resort saw minus 6.2°C, a slight rise from the prior night's minus 6.8°C. Sonamarg recorded a minimum temperature of 4.3°C. Other spots included Qazigund at minus 5.8°C, Kokernag at minus 3.4°C, and Kupwara at minus 5.6°C. The freezing weather caused parts of Dal Lake and other water bodies to freeze for the first time this season. Kashmir is currently in the 'Chilla-i-Kalan', a harsh 40-day cold period from December 21 to January 30. During this time, night temperatures often plunge well below freezing, raising the chances of snowfall, although the plains have yet to see any snow this season. The India Meteorological Department forecasts dry but cloudy weather in the valley until January 21. "Chilla-i-Kalan" continues to grip Kashmir with icy temperatures and frost-bitten nights, marking one of the coldest spells in recent years.