INTENSE HEATWAVE: No immediate respite from dry, hot weather conditions in J&K, says Lotus
Srinagar, Jun 13: As Jammu and Kashmir continues to reel under an intense and prolonged heatwave, the Meteorologists have forecast the early onset of the southwest monsoon by June 20, nearly ten days ahead of its usual arrival.
However, residents may have to brace for continued discomfort as officials warn that there is no major relief in sight from the heatwave for most parts of the Union Territory in the immediate future. Senior Meteorologist Sonam Lotus, on Friday said that although monsoon currents are expected to reach the Jammu region earlier than usual, the overall hot and dry conditions across the region are likely to persist in the coming days.
“Despite the early onset of monsoon around June 20, we do not expect any significant relief from the ongoing heatwave, especially across the plains of Jammu division,” Lotus told Greater Kashmir. “There may be some temporary relief of 1–2°C in parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, but this is not expected to bring any substantial change to the overall discomfort.” “There is a good possibility of moderate rainfall activity once the monsoon reaches around June 20, particularly in Jammu and parts of the Pir Panjal region,” added Sonam Lotus. “However, sustained widespread rains may not set in immediately.”
On Friday, Jammu and Kashmir experienced an intense heatwave, with temperatures across the region rising significantly above normal, according to data released by the Meteorological Centre, Srinagar.
Both the Kashmir Valley and parts of the Jammu region witnessed unusually high daytime temperatures, while Ladakh also reported elevated heat levels. In the Kashmir Srinagar recorded a sweltering 32.4°C — 4.4°C above normal, while Qazigund was the hottest in the Valley at 32.8°C, a staggering 6.1°C above normal. Pahalgam and Kupwara followed closely, recording 28.2°C and 31.9°C respectively. Kokernag emerged as the hottest among the listed hill stations, hitting 33.2°C, which is 7.0°C above the seasonal norm. Even the usually cool Gulmarg saw a high of 23.0°C, 4.2°C above average.
Meanwhile, the Jammu region remained firmly in the grip of heat. Jammu city boiled at 43.6°C, 4.8°C above normal, while Katra wasn’t far behind at 39.5°C. Other places like Banihal (31.8°C), Batote (31.6°C), and Bhaderwah (30.8°C) also recorded significantly higher-than-average temperatures. In Ladakh, Leh recorded a high of 27.0°C, 3.5°C above normal, while temperature data from Kargil remained unavailable. According to the forecast by MeT on June 13 generally hot and dry conditions are expected to continue, with brief spells of rain, showers, or gusty winds at isolated to scattered places. On June 14–16 intermittent light rain/thundershowers are likely at isolated places, with gusty winds and thunder.
On June 17–20 weather will largely remain hot and dry. On June 21–23 a shift is expected with generally cloudy skies and spells of rain/thundershowers at many locations.
The MET Centre has issued a heatwave advisory for isolated to scattered parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the next two days. Residents have strongly advised to stay hydrated and consume sufficient fluids, avoid outdoor exposure during peak heat hours (12 noon to 4 PM) and take protective measures, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children. Farmers have been encouraged to continue regular agricultural operations as no major weather disruptions are anticipated in the coming days.
