Srinagar, June 1: The Kashmir Valley has experienced heavy rainfall over the past two days, providing relief from the recent heatwave. The Meteorological Department has forecasted more showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds beginning June 2 and continuing into June 3.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar, reported widespread light to moderate rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir in the last 24 hours, including light snowfall in higher altitudes. Pahalgam recorded 36.8 mm of rainfall, while Banihal saw 34.3 mm. Strong winds were also reported, with Baramulla clocking 31 km/h, Jammu 54 km/h, and Kathua 64 km/h.
From June 2 to 3, further light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected across many parts of the region. The weather is anticipated to turn generally dry between June 4 and 6, with isolated showers possible during late afternoons. A similar trend is expected on June 7 and 8, with only light, isolated rain in some areas.
The MeT department has issued an advisory, warning residents to stay cautious of thunder, lightning, and strong windsโespecially in the late afternoon on June 2. People are urged to avoid standing near weak structures, power lines, and large trees during these weather events.
In Srinagar, the maximum temperature dropped to 19.5ยฐC, which is 7.2ยฐC below the seasonal average. The minimum temperature was slightly lower than normal at 11.6ยฐC. Qazigund recorded a maximum of 19.4ยฐC (6.2ยฐC below normal) and a minimum of 9.8ยฐC. Pahalgamโs high reached only 16.1ยฐC, nearly 7ยฐC below average.
Kupwara saw a maximum of 17.6ยฐC (down 9.6ยฐC), and Kokernag recorded 18.4ยฐC (down 7.2ยฐC). Gulmarg remained the coldest location with a high of just 7.6ยฐC, nearly 10ยฐC below normal.
Jammu also saw a dip in temperatures, with a maximum of 35.5ยฐC and a minimum of 25.5ยฐC. Banihal, Batote, Katra, and Bhaderwah also reported cooler-than-usual temperatures and varying amounts of rainfall.
Traffic on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) will be allowed in both directions for light vehicles, subject to favorable weather and road conditions. The Srinagar-Leh highway and Mughal Road are also open for light and heavy motor vehicles, but within restricted time slots and with certain limitations, especially for heavy goods carriers.