Valley sizzles under intense heatwave, no rains in sight

Srinagar, July 25: Kashmir is in the grip of a heatwave with day temperatures at various places soaring to record-high, even as Meteorological Department (MeT) officials said that the scorching conditions were expected to persist.

The Valley has been experiencing rising temperatures and scorching heat over the past few weeks, leading to water shortages in many areas.

The scorching heat has resulted in people staying indoors and has led to an increase in the sales of cooling gadgets like air conditioners, fans, and coolers.

Commuters are also facing difficulties in travelling, especially in city traffic, and many are making a beeline to car AC service providers to ensure the smooth functioning of the car cooling systems.

Senior Meteorologist Sonam Lotus told Greater Kashmir that there would be no significant change in the weather pattern in the coming days, with minimal chances of rain.

“The heatwave will continue. People should take utmost precautions,” he said. “Chances of any rain are very low.”

Lotus said that till July 28, heatwaves would keep sweeping.

He said that there were likely chances of slight relief.

“However, there won’t be any major spell of rain in the coming days in any part of J&K and Ladakh,” Lotus said.

The senior meteorologist said that there was an urgent need for hydration.

He specifically urged school-going children and the people to remain vigilant and hydrated as they navigate the sweltering conditions.

The high temperatures recorded on Thursday have not been seen since 1997, marking a significant anomaly in Kashmir’s weather patterns.

On Thursday, Srinagar recorded 34.5 degrees Celsius, Qazigund 33 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam 31.2 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 35.1 degrees Celsius, Kokernag 32.8 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg 24.8 degrees Celsius, and Jammu 36 degrees Celsius.

The unusually high temperatures have affected life in Kashmir where residents often experience relatively moderate temperatures and pleasant weather.

The School Education Department in Kashmir has changed the daily school timings to start from 8 am till 1 pm.

The day temperatures were equally hot in other parts of Kashmir including Kupwara in north Kashmir and Qazigund in south Kashmir.