Unrelenting heatwave torments Kashmir
Srinagar, Jun 20: Kashmir is reeling under an intense and prolonged heatwave sweeping central, south, and north Kashmir.
Srinagar recorded a scorching 35.6 degrees Celsius on Friday - a staggering 6.3 degrees Celsius above normal for this time of the year - the highest since 2005.
This is one of the highest June temperatures recorded in the city in recent years, as the region experiences unusually prolonged dry and hot weather.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar, several parts of Kashmir are currently experiencing temperatures far above normal, marking a clear departure from the regionís typically mild summer conditions.
Srinagar recorded 35.6 degrees Celsius, 6.3 degrees Celsius above normal; Qazigund 34.5∞C, 7.1 degrees Celsius above normal, Pahalgam 30 degrees Celsius, 5.2 degrees Celsius above normal, Kupwara 34.1 degrees Celsius, 4.4 degrees Celsius above normal, Kokernag 33.6 degrees Celsius, 6.4 degrees Celsius above normal, and Gulmarg 25.2 degrees Celsius, 5.2 degrees Celsius above normal.
In Jammu division, Jammu district recorded 36.1 degrees Celsius, 1.5 degrees Celsius below normal, Banihal 30.6∞C, 1.5 degrees Celsius above normal, Batote 27.8 degrees Celsius, 0.5 degrees Celsius below normal, Bhaderwah 32.6 degrees Celsius, 2.1 degrees Celsius above normal, and Katra 32 degrees Celsius, 2.8 degrees Celsius below normal.
The ongoing spell of intense heat has sparked growing concerns among health officials, farmers, and the people.
Doctors have advised residents to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
However, relief appears to be on the horizon.
The MeT has forecast a shift in weather conditions beginning from June 21, bringing cloud cover and spells of rain and thundershowers across Jammu and Kashmir.
It said that on June 20, hot and dry conditions would continue, with heatwave to severe heatwave conditions at isolated locations.
ìThere is a possibility of brief rain and thundershowers at a few places,î the MeT said.
It said that on June 21 and 22, a significant change is expected. The weather would turn generally cloudy with intermittent spells of rain and thundershowers, including intense showers at a few locations.
The MeT said that on June 23 and 24, scattered rain and thundershowers are likely.
It said that from June 25 to June 27, widespread cloudy weather is expected, with moderate to heavy rainfall at several locations.
The MeT said that from June 28 to 30, intermittent rain and thundershowers might continue at scattered places.
Meanwhile, the authorities have issued advisories according to which the farmers have been advised to complete farming operations before June 20 due to the expected wet spell starting the following day.
The MeT said that there was a high probability of moderate to heavy rainfall, especially in the Jammu region from June 21 to 22 and June 25 to 27.
The department has also warned of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas, particularly along mountain roads and hilly terrain.
