Relief from scorching heat soon: MeT

Srinagar, June 30: The long-awaited monsoon has finally arrived in Jammu and Kashmir, bringing much-needed relief from the ongoing heat wave. Moderate rains were recorded on Saturday over various parts of the Jammu division, significantly lowering the temperatures.

“Finally, southwest monsoon rainfall commenced this morning over Jammu division, bringing relief from the ongoing heat wave and hot weather,” MeT’s officials said.

On Saturday, Udhampur received 30.5 mm of rain, Kathua 35 mm, and Katra 28.1 mm.

“There are chances of a gradual rise in rainfall intensity from July 2 onwards,” they said.

MeT officials said that conditions were likely to become favourable for the further advance of the southwest monsoon into the remaining parts of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh within the next two to three days. The forecast predicts light to moderate rain and thundershowers in many areas of the Jammu division, particularly during late night and early morning hours until June 30. The MeT has issued a weather update for J&K, predicting light to moderate rainfall and thundershowers over the coming days.

It predicted that upto July 3 in the Jammu division, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected at many places, particularly late at night and early mornings.

The MeT said that in the Kashmir division rain and thundershowers were expected at a few locations, mainly in the afternoons and evenings.

It said that from 4 to July 7, there is a possibility of intermittent light to moderate rainfall at most places in the entire J&K with heavy showers expected at a few locations.

Meanwhile, a MeT Department advisory issued a warning to residents and travelers stating that there is a risk of flash floods in some areas while vulnerable locations might experience landslides and mudslides and some places may be affected by shooting stones.

According to the MeT advisory, moderate thunderstorms and lightning are expected in a few areas.

The residents have been advised to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the latest weather updates.

The authorities are on high alert and ready to respond to any emergencies arising from these weather conditions.

“Light rain at a few places in the Kashmir division is also expected,” officials said.

They said starting from July 2, there would be a gradual increase in rainfall intensity with the possibility of intermittent light to moderate rainfall at many locations.

“Heavy showers at a few places for a brief period cannot be ruled out,” they said.

Independent weather spotter Faizan Arif, known for his handle Kashmir_Weather on X, said that the monsoon rains would also lead to a drop in temperatures in Kashmir.

“Probably, Kashmir will also witness rain showers, and temperatures will come down, particularly during the first week of July,” he posted.

The MeT warned against potential landslides and mudslides at vulnerable locations. “A few places may experience moderate thunderstorms and lightning as well,” the advisory cautioned.

Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Kashmir region, receives 70 percent of its precipitation from Western Disturbances - moisture-laden winds from the Mediterranean - while the rest is brought by monsoon rains.

In 2022, the region received normal monsoon rainfall after two years, with the annual average rainfall usually ranging between 700-750 mm.