Relief from scorching heatwave as rains cool Kashmir

Srinagar, May 27: After days of enduring an intense heatwave, residents in parts of Kashmir heaved a sigh of relief late Tuesday afternoon as a heavy spell of rainfall, accompanied by a hailstorm, brought down soaring temperatures and offered much-needed respite.

The sudden change in weather marked a welcome break from the relentless heat that had gripped Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in Srinagar, where the mercury had climbed to 32.3 degrees Celsius - 6.2 degrees above the seasonal average on Tuesday.

The rainfall cooled down temperatures, breaking a long dry spell that had caused widespread discomfort and disrupted daily life.

Qazigund, often referred to as the gateway to Kashmir, had recorded a maximum of 31.3 degrees Celsius earlier in the day, while other regions such as Kupwara (30.7 degrees Celsius), Kokernag (30.8 degrees Celsius), and Gulmarg (22.8 degrees Celsius) also reported higher-than-usual temperatures.

Jammu division too experienced scorching heat, with Jammu City touching 37.5 degrees Celsius.

However, the recent weather developments have raised hopes of a gradual end to the ongoing heatwave.

“The weather is expected to shift further in the coming days, especially after the 28th, with possibilities of more rainfall and a dip in temperatures, particularly in hilly areas,” Meteorological Department officials said here. “A drop of three degrees could significantly ease heatwave conditions within a week.”

The persistent heat had forced schools to adjust their timings and brought productivity down across workplaces.

Health officials and the district administration had issued advisories urging people to stay indoors during peak sun hours, keep hydrated, and take special care of children and the elderly.

“This spell of rain is a blessing,” said Javed Ahmed of Srinagar. “The heat was unbearable, and water shortages in several parts of Wadi Kashmir made life even harder. We’re hoping the weather continues to cool down.”