Srinagar sizzles at 33.2°C

Srinagar, May 23: Day temperatures across Jammu and Kashmir continued to soar on Friday, with Kashmir witnessing unusually high temperatures.

Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 33.2 degrees Celsius, a staggering 7.8 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average, marking one of the hottest days in recent years.

According to the Meteorological Department, the heatwave has gripped both Kashmir and Jammu divisions, pushing mercury levels significantly above the normal range and triggering health advisories across J&K.

In the Kashmir division, Meteorological Department officials said Qazigund recorded 32.5 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 32.4 degrees Celsius, Kokernag 31.5 degrees Celsius, and Pahalgam touched 28.8 degrees Celsius.

Even the usually cool Gulmarg reported a maximum of 23 degrees Celsius.

ìThis prolonged spell of abnormal temperatures is concerning. We are witnessing early signs of heat stress among vulnerable populations,î a senior health official in Srinagar said. ìPeople should avoid unnecessary exposure to sunlight during peak hours and stay hydrated.î

MeT officials said that temperatures in the Jammu division remained equally unforgiving.

Jammu city sizzled at 38.2 degrees Celsius while Katra recorded 35.2 degrees Celsius.

Banihal and Batote, which typically offer a cooler climate, recorded 29.2 degrees Celsius and 27.7 degrees Celsius.

The Meteorological Department has issued a detailed weather forecast and advisory for the coming days.

May 23 to 26 would predominantly witness hot and dry conditions though brief spells of light rain may occur at isolated places, especially during late afternoons.

May 27 to 31 will witness a dry spell with occasional light rain or thundershowers at scattered places.

The maximum temperatures in Kashmir division are likely to rise by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius till May 23 with heatwave conditions possible at isolated locations.

A slight dip of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius is expected afterwards.

In the Jammu division, a more intense rise of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius is forecasted until May 26, raising the risk of heatwave conditions in isolated areas.

Thunderstorms and gusty winds may develop during late afternoons in some regions.

The J&K Disaster Management Authority has urged district administrations to remain vigilant, particularly in rural and high-altitude areas where infrastructure to combat heat stress is limited.

Farmers have also been advised to take protective measures for livestock and irrigation-sensitive crops.