Heatwave to extend for 5 more days in J&K
Srinagar, May 24: The Meteorological Department Friday issued a heatwave alert for Jammu and Kashmir, urging residents, especially the vulnerable sections, to avoid heat exposure and stay hydrated.
The heatwave is expected to persist over the next five days, impacting both the plains and hilly districts of J&K.
“HEATWAVE conditions are forecasted to continue over the plains of Kashmir and Jammu divisions for the next five days,” the MeT officials said. “Hot and dry weather will dominate the hilly districts during this period.”
The department has urged the need for precautionary measures, particularly for the elderly, infants, and children.
“Avoid heat exposure and drink plenty of fluids,” they advised.
From May 24 to 28, the weather is predicted to remain generally dry, with a slight chance of isolated thundershowers.
From May 29 to 31, partly to generally cloudy weather with light rain or thunderstorms is anticipated in isolated areas, especially in the afternoons.
“No significant weather activity is expected through May 31,” a MeT official said.
On Friday, the maximum temperature recorded in Srinagar was 30.3 degrees Celsius, Qazigund 31.4 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam 26 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 29.5 degrees Celsius, Kokernag 30 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg 20.8 degrees Celsius, Jammu 40 degrees Celsius, Banihal 28.6 degrees Celsius, and Batote 29.9 degrees Celsius.
Night-time temperatures have also risen.
Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of 15.4 degrees Celsius, up from 15 degrees Celsius the previous night, which is 3.7 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average.
Other areas also reported higher than normal minimum temperatures with Qazigund reporting 12 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam 8.5 degrees Celsius, Kokernag 13 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 12 degrees Celsius, and Gulmarg 11.8 degrees Celsius.
In Jammu, the minimum temperature was recorded at 27.6 degrees Celsius, slightly down from 29.1 degrees Celsius the previous night but still 3.2 degrees Celsius above the normal range.
Other areas in the Jammu division also reported higher-than-normal temperatures, including Banihal at 12.6 degrees Celsius, Batote at 15.3 degrees Celsius, and Bhaderwah at 13 degrees Celsius.
The advisory recommends drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if one does not feel thirsty, and avoiding caffeinated beverages as they could lead to dehydration.
It suggests that those working in high temperature and humidity conditions should drink cold water regularly.
It also suggests reducing exposure to hot environments and ensuring periods of rest between intense work sessions.
The advisory suggests taking cool showers or baths at home to lower body temperature.
The residents have been encouraged to wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing.
Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, shields, and umbrellas have been recommended to protect against sunburn.
The advisory suggests strenuous activities should be avoided during the hottest parts of the day, and if outdoor activities are necessary, frequent breaks in shaded or cool environments are advised.
It suggests applying sunscreen to protect the skin from sunburn.
Special advisory for children includes never leaving them in parked cars, ensuring they play in shaded areas, taking breaks to cool down and hydrate, dressing them appropriately, and applying sunscreen regularly.
Parents have been urged to encourage frequent water breaks and offer water-rich snacks like fruits.
Schools have been advised to avoid outdoor activities during extremely hot and humid weather and to ensure good hydration with multiple safe drinking water stations.
For the elderly, the department advises ensuring access to cool environments and watching for symptoms like dizziness, heavy sweating, or lack of sweating.
In such cases, immediate medical attention should be sought from nearby government healthcare facilities.
By following these guidelines, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses during extreme heat events, the department said.
