Kashmir records warmest February as daytime temperature averages hit new highs

Srinagar, Mar 1: The Kashmir Valley has recorded its warmest February in terms of average maximum temperatures, with all major weather stations reporting record-breaking monthly daytime means.

In Srinagar, the average maximum temperature for February reached 15.6 degrees Celsius (60.1 Fahrenheit), surpassing the previous record average of 14.9°C set in 2016.

The sustained warmth was particularly evident over the past two weeks, when daytime temperatures consistently hovered between 20°C and 21°C, significantly elevating the monthly mean.

In south Kashmir’s Qazigund, the February average maximum settled at 15.2°C, breaking the earlier record of 14.1°C recorded in 2016.

North Kashmir’s Kupwara registered a February average maximum of 14.8°C, narrowly exceeding its previous high of 14.7°C from 2016.

The warming trend extended beyond the plains. Kokernag recorded a February average maximum of 13.5°C, crossing its earlier record of 12.8°C set in 2016.

In the hill resort of Pahalgam, the February average maximum climbed to 12.1°C, overtaking the previous record of 11.6°C from 2016.

Even Gulmarg ski resort, typically one of the coldest locations in winter, recorded a February average maximum of 7.0°C, shattering its long-standing record of 5.9°C set in 2006.

February is traditionally marked by persistent cold conditions and widespread snow cover across the valley.

This year, however, sustained above-normal daytime temperatures sharply lifted the monthly averages.

“What we witnessed was not just isolated warm days, but a consistent rise in daytime temperatures throughout the month,” said independent weather forecaster Faizan Keng. “That persistent warmth is what pushed February’s average maximum temperatures into record territory across Kashmir.”

The sustained departure from normal firmly established the month as the warmest February on record in terms of average maximum temperatures across the Kashmir Valley.