SRINAGAR: With Jammu recording a searing 40.4°C and Srinagar touching 30.0°C on Thursday, heatwave conditions gripped several parts of Jammu and Kashmir as the Meteorological Department predicted continued dry weather until May 18.
Maximum temperatures rose significantly across the Union Territory, marking one of the hottest spells of the season so far. Jammu remained the hottest area, registering 40.4 degrees Celsius, while Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded 30.0 degrees Celsius.
Other areas too experienced unusually high temperatures. Batote, Banihal and Bhaderwah all recorded around 30.0°C, Qazigund reached 29.7°C, Kokernag 28.4°C, and Kupwara 27.9°C. Among the famous tourist spots, Pahalgam settled at 24.5°C and Gulmarg, though relatively cooler, registered 20.0°C.
Director of the Meteorological Department, Mukhtar Ahmad said that generally dry weather is expected across the region until the evening of May 18. He added that there is a likelihood of rain, thundershowers, and gusty winds at scattered locations on Sunday evening.
On May 19, light rainfall accompanied by thunder and gusty winds is expected at isolated places, while dry weather is likely to prevail from May 20 to May 22.
In its advisory, the MeT has cautioned of a further significant rise in daytime temperatures over the next three days, particularly in the Jammu division. Farmers have been advised to continue agricultural operations until the afternoon of May 18.
