Leh, 16 January (H.S.): Hanle in Ladakh recorded the lowest minimum temperature across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on Friday, plunging to minus 11.2 degrees Celsius, as intense cold conditions prevailed in the high-altitude Changthang region.

The temperature data reveals that Hanle remained the coldest reported location, registering temperatures significantly below other cold pockets of the region. The sharp dip highlights the severity of winter in the trans-Himalayan belt, where prolonged sub-zero nights are common during peak winter months.

The extreme cold in Hanle is attributed to its high elevation, clear night skies and dry atmospheric conditions, which allow rapid heat loss after sunset. Such conditions often result in temperatures dropping sharply during the night and early morning hours.

Locals in and around Hanle continued to face harsh living conditions, with freezing nights affecting daily routines, water supply lines and outdoor activities. The intense cold has also added to challenges for livestock and limited mobility in the remote area.

Meteorological officials said similar cold conditions are likely to continue in Hanle and adjoining areas in the coming days, particularly during night and early morning hours, unless cloud cover or fresh snowfall intervenes to moderate temperatures.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar