Scorching Spring | Kashmir sizzles

Srinagar, May 22:  A severe heat wave has begun to grip Kashmir, with temperatures soaring to record highs on Wednesday even as the Meteorological Department predicted it would continue almost for the next four days.

The highest temperature was recorded in Shopian at a scorching 32 degrees Celsius, closely followed by Pulwama at 31.9 degrees Celsius.

The heat wave is affecting both urban and rural areas, causing discomfort and health concerns among residents.

The plains of the Kashmir division and the hilly districts of the Jammu division are likely to experience hot and dry weather over the next five days.

This prolonged period of high temperatures and dry conditions can have various impacts on daily life and agriculture.

The Kashmir Weather Forecast reported the maximum temperatures across key locations in Kashmir as

32 degrees Celsius for Shopian, 31.6 degrees Celsius for Srinagar City, 30.2 degrees Celsius for Kupwara, 31.6 degrees Celsius for Qazigund, 30.2 degrees Celsius for Kokernag, 27.1 degrees Celsius for Pahalgam, 30.5 degrees Celsius for Baramulla, 31.4 degrees Celsius for Bandipora, 31.5 degrees Celsius for Budgam, 31.9 degrees Celsius for Pulwama, and 30.7 degrees Celsius for Anantnag.

The heat wave is raising concerns among farmers, particularly those cultivating crops that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.

The high temperatures can lead to reduced soil moisture and increased evaporation rates, potentially affecting crop yields.

Farmers in Kashmir are closely monitoring the situation and taking measures to protect their crops from the heat.

According to the Kashmir Weather Forecast, the heat wave is expected to persist for the next few days, with temperatures remaining above average.

The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has issued a weather update and advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, forecasting generally dry conditions from May 21 to May 28.

While the overall weather is expected to remain stable, the possibility of thundershower activity at isolated locations cannot be ruled out.

The MET Centre has issued specific advisories for farmers, encouraging them to resume farm operations.

The current weather conditions are favourable for agricultural activities and farmers are advised to make the most of this period for planting and other farm-related tasks.

Residents of the plains in Jammu division are cautioned to prepare for a heat wave starting from Wednesday.

The temperatures are expected to rise significantly, making it essential for people to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.