The heatwave tightened its grip on Kashmir on Monday, with Srinagar recording 35.3°C, the highest temperature of the month and around 5°C above the seasonal average, according to the Meteorological Department.
The Valley has witnessed a sharp rise in temperatures over the past four days, bringing an end to the unusually cool weather that prevailed through most of June. Srinagar’s maximum temperature increased from 33.8°C on Sunday to 35.3°C on Monday.
Other parts of Kashmir also recorded above-normal temperatures. Qazigund registered 33.8°C, Kokernag 32.9°C, Kupwara 32.7°C, Pahalgam 29°C, and Gulmarg 26.9°C, with most places recording temperatures several degrees above normal.
In the Jammu region, Jammu city recorded 36.9°C, while Katra, Bhaderwah, Banihal, and Batote also experienced warmer-than-normal weather.
The Meteorological Department has predicted that temperatures may remain high or rise slightly on Tuesday. However, a fresh Western Disturbance, interacting with advancing monsoon winds, is expected to affect Jammu and Kashmir from July 1 to July 5.
The weather system is likely to bring widespread rain, thunderstorms, gusty winds, lightning, and isolated hailstorms, providing much-needed relief from the ongoing heatwave. Authorities have also warned that heavy rainfall and strong winds could cause localised disruptions, especially in flood-prone and hilly areas. (Agencies)
