Srinagar, Nov 24: Offering a reprieve from the biting cold and fog, most areas in Kashmir experienced a rise in mercury last night, according to officials on Friday. The summer capital, Srinagar, recorded a minimum temperature of 0.9 degrees Celsius, marking the first time in five days that the temperature stayed above freezing point in the city. Other regions such as Bandipora, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Kokernag, Kulgam, and Kupwara reported minimum temperatures ranging from zero degrees Celsius to 1.7 degrees Celsius.

In the south Kashmir Anantnag district, the Pahalgam tourist resort claimed the title of the coldest recorded place in the valley, registering minus 3.3 degrees Celsius. Following closely was Shopian, where the mercury settled at minus 2.5 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the Gulmarg ski resort in north Kashmir reported a low of minus 2.0 degrees Celsius.

The slight increase in minimum temperature was attributed to the arrival of a western disturbance, expected to impact the system. This welcomed change in temperature has also led to a reduction in early morning fog, providing a respite for residents.