Srinagar, known as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, reported a low temperature of minus 3.5 degrees Celsius on Thursday night. This indicated an improvement from the preceding night when temperatures had dropped to minus 5.4 degrees Celsius, marking the city's coldest night this winter.

Pahalgam, situated in Anantnag district and serving as a crucial base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra, recorded a minimum temperature of minus 5.0 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Gulmarg, a renowned ski resort in Baramulla district, registered a low of minus 3.4 degrees Celsius.

Other regions in Kashmir also experienced varying degrees of cold, with Qazigund noting a low of minus 2.8 degrees Celsius, Kokernag town at minus 1.9 degrees Celsius, and Kupwara at minus 4.2 degrees Celsius.

The meteorological department's forecast for Friday includes mainly dry weather conditions across the region. Additionally, Saturday might witness generally cloudy skies with the potential for light snowfall in isolated areas at higher altitudes.

Predictions indicate that dry and chilly weather patterns are likely to persist until December 21 across most parts of Jammu and Kashmir. This sustained cold spell might continue to impact daily life in the region.

Alongside the prevailing cold, shallow to moderate fog is expected to persist in numerous locations across Kashmir. This foggy weather might pose visibility challenges and further add to the wintry conditions.

The improvement in minimum temperatures, although offering some reprieve, still signifies a continued period of intense cold, necessitating residents to take necessary precautions to combat the harsh weather.

Despite the marginal rise in temperatures, the overall climate remains characterized by severe cold, prompting individuals to adhere to precautions, especially in outdoor activities and travel plans.