No respite as heatwave further tightens grip in J&K
Srinagar, Jun 12: Jammu and Kashmir continues to grapple with one of the most intense and prolonged heatwaves in its recorded history, with temperatures in both the Kashmir Valley and Jammu divisions soaring well above seasonal norms. On Thursday, Srinagar recorded a sweltering 34.2°C, a staggering 6.2°C above normal, making it the third-highest temperature recorded in 57 years. The scorching heat has spared no area — Qazigund hit 33.9°C (7.2°C above normal), Pahalgam recorded 29.0°C (5.3°C above normal), and Kokernag soared to 33.2°C, an unprecedented 7.0°C above normal. Even the renowned ski destination Gulmarg experienced a high of 24.8°C, which is 6.0°C above its typical range.
In Kupwara, the temperature reached 33.0°C (4.8°C above normal), while in Ladakh, the desert mountain towns of Leh and Kargil registered 26.2°C and 26.8°C, respectively—far above what is traditionally expected in early June. The Jammu region fared no better. Jammu city recorded a searing 43.6°C, 4.8°C above normal, and Katra touched 39.5°C, both contributing to the intensifying heat stress. Other towns such as Banihal, Batote, and Bhaderwah also reported temperatures exceeding 33°C, significantly deviating from historical averages.
The meteorological department has forecast no immediate relief, with clear skies and dry conditions expected to persist for at least four more days. The persistent heat has prompted officials to issue public health warnings and advisories, especially for vulnerable groups including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.
In response to the escalating health crisis, authorities have issued heatwave management guidelines for schools, emphasizing protection for students during the harsh summer days. Key recommendations include staying hydrated, with children encouraged to drink water frequently. Avoiding peak sunlight hours (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.): Outdoor activities should be restricted. Monitoring indoor temperatures: Classrooms should be kept cool and ventilated; Checking playground equipment: Ensure surfaces aren’t too hot to touch.
Recognising heat illness symptoms: Teachers and staff are trained to identify and treat early signs of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. The MET Center in Srinagar has advised the public to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, wear light clothing, consume ample fluids, and limit exposure to direct sunlight.
