Jammu & Kashmir Sizzles as Heatwave Grips the Region
Jammu and Kashmir are currently facing an intense heatwave, with many places in both regions reporting their highest temperatures for this time of year. On Wednesday, Jammu, which is the winter capital of the region, recorded a scorching 41.4°C. This is the hottest day the city has seen this year.
Srinagar Sees Hottest May Day in Nearly 60 Years
Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded a temperature of 34.4°C on Thursday. According to the local weather office, this is the highest temperature recorded in Srinagar during May in 57 years. The previous record for May was 36.4°C, set on May 24, 1968. This temperature is also the third-highest ever recorded in Srinagar for the month of May, with the highest being 35.0°C on May 31, 1956. Thursday’s temperature was also nine degrees higher than what is normal for this time of year, showing how severe the current heatwave is.
In south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, Kokernag also saw a historic temperature rise. The weather station there recorded 33.3°C on Thursday, which is its highest ever for the month of May. The old record was 32.6°C, set on May 15, 2001.
Several Districts in J&K Hit Seasonal Highs
Qazigund, known as the entry point to Kashmir, reached 33.2°C, making it the hottest day there this season. Other parts of the Kashmir Valley also felt the heat, with Pahalgam recording 25.8°C, Kupwara at 30.0°C, Kokernag at 31.5°C, and Gulmarg, a popular ski resort, reporting 23.2°C.
In the Jammu division, apart from Jammu city, other towns also saw high temperatures. Katra reported 36.8°C, Banihal 30.4°C, Batote 30.1°C, and Bhaderwah 31.3°C.
Weather Officials Warn of More Heat Until End of May
The Meteorological Department has warned that temperatures in the Kashmir region are expected to rise further by 1°C to 2°C until today. Mostly hot and dry weather is expected to continue until May 26, though there might be short periods of light rain in a few isolated places, especially in the late afternoon. Overall, the weather is likely to remain dry and hot until May 31, with a chance of occasional rain and thunderstorms in some scattered areas.
Advice for Residents and Vulnerable Groups
The Meteorological Department has advised the public that temperatures in the Jammu division are expected to rise by another 2°C to 3°C, with heatwave conditions continuing until May 26. After that, temperatures might drop by 2°C to 3°C.
Health officials have urged people, especially children, senior citizens, and those who work outdoors, to take steps to protect themselves. This includes drinking plenty of water, avoiding direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, and wearing light, airy clothes.
Authorities are also keeping a close watch on the situation. Schools and public services have already changed their timings to reduce people’s exposure to the heat during peak hours.
Local Relief Efforts: In light of the severe heatwave, local administrations in Jammu and Kashmir are taking steps to help residents. This includes issuing public advisories, adjusting school timings to protect children, and monitoring the situation closely. People are encouraged to check on their neighbours, especially the elderly, and ensure that stray animals also have access to water. Community centres and public spaces are also being considered as cooling shelters if the need arises.
