Heatwave continues to grip Kashmir, Srinagar hotter than Jammu

Srinagar, July 22: The ongoing heatwave in Kashmir shows no signs of abating, with temperatures in Srinagar surpassing those in Jammu, traditionally known for its sweltering summers.

The Meteorological Department officials said, hot and humid weather was expected to persist until July 26, raising concerns about the impact on daily life and health across J&K.

The maximum temperatures recorded on Monday underscore the severity of the heatwave.

The MeT officials said Srinagar recorded 35.6 degrees Celsius, Qazigund 34 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam 30.2 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 35.6 degrees Celsius, Kokernag 33.5 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg 25.2 degrees Celsius, Jammu 35.5 degrees Celsius, Banihal 31.4 degrees Celsius, Batote 28.8 degrees Celsius, Bhaderwah 32.6 degrees Celsius, Katra 32.2 degrees Celsius, Udhampur 33.4 degrees Celsius, and Kathua 36.9 degrees Celsius.

In a rare occurrence, Srinagar recorded a temperature of 35.6 degrees Celsius, matching that of Kupwara, and slightly exceeding Jammu’s 35.5 degrees Celsius.

The highest temperature in J&K was observed in Kathua at 36.9 degrees Celsius.

The weather forecast from July 22 to 26 is mainly clear to partly cloudy skies with brief spells of rain or thundershowers at isolated to scattered places in the Kashmir division, and scattered to fairly widespread places in the Jammu division.

From July 27 to 28, the weather forecast is partly to generally cloudy skies with intermittent spells of light to moderate rain or thundershowers at many places.

From July 29 to 31, there is a possibility of rain or thundershowers in isolated to scattered places.

The intense heat and accompanying weather conditions have prompted an advisory from the authorities.

They said that there is a risk of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones at vulnerable locations in the Jammu division due to brief but intense showers.

Hot and humid weather is expected to prevail until July 26, and the residents have been urged to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

The ongoing heatwave has significantly impacted daily life in Kashmir.

Many residents are finding it challenging to cope with the high temperatures, especially in areas like Srinagar, where such intense heat is uncommon.

The persistent heat is also affecting agriculture, with farmers worried about the impact on their crops.

Health experts have advised people to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take necessary precautions to prevent heatstroke and dehydration.