Srinagar, Dec 12 || Biting cold with no prospect of major rain/snowfall till the end of the month continued in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday as minimum temperature remained several notches below the freezing point in the Valley.
Srinagar city had minus 3.6 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam minus 4.6 and Gulmarg zero as a minimum temperature.
Jammu city had 8.5 degrees Celsius, Katra 9.4, Batote 6.3, Banihal 4.2 and Bhaderwah 1.9 as the minimum temperature.
An extended dry spell has resulted in several serious problems erupting in Kashmir. Due to the lack of rain/snow, the suspended particulate matter (SPM) has mixed with low-lying fog, especially in areas in and around Srinagar city, resulting in smog.
The air quality index (AQI) has worsened, and people in large numbers are suffering from chest-related ailments exacerbated by cold and chilly winds. Pulmonologists have advised people to avoid direct exposure to cold air by wrapping themselves in woollens, especially mufflers to cover their neck and face while coming out of their homes in the mornings/evenings.