𝐉&𝐊 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐰𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

Srinagar, May 17: Jammu and Kashmir is currently grappling with an unusually severe heatwave, with temperatures in both Jammu and Srinagar far exceeding seasonal norms. Srinagar recorded a high of 31.5°C on Saturday—5.4°C above average—while Jammu scorched at 41.0°C.

According to Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department, temperatures will likely rise further over the next three days, especially in the Jammu region. He urged residents to avoid going outdoors during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and limit physical exertion.

While hot and dry conditions will persist, the Meteorological Department has forecast light rain and thundershowers starting Sunday evening, which may offer temporary relief.

Farmers have been advised to wrap up fieldwork by the afternoon of May 18, ahead of expected gusty winds, thunder, and lightning predicted between May 18 and 19.

Detailed temperature and humidity data show significantly high readings across the region. Srinagar’s high was 31.5°C, while the night low was 25.4°C. Jammu, the hottest among the areas observed, recorded a maximum of 41.0°C with minimal difference between day and night temperatures.

Other regions such as Qazigund (31.0°C), Pahalgam (25.8°C), Kupwara (27.0°C), and Kathua (41.0°C) also reported elevated temperatures. Relative humidity varied widely, from 20% to 82%, contributing to discomfort.

The MeT department continues to monitor the situation and has advised the public to remain cautious, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with medical conditions.