SRINAGAR: Intermittent rainfall continued across Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, keeping temperatures below normal. The Meteorological Department has forecast more rain in the coming days and issued alerts for several areas.
The MeT has said that rainfall recorded from June 1 to July 16 stands at 157 mm, close to the normal level of 159.4 mm for the period.
Temperatures across the region have dropped. Srinagar recorded a maximum of 21.0°C, which is 9.1°C below normal. Qazigund reported 20.2°C, Pahalgam 19.7°C, Kupwara 27.9°C, Kokernag 20.7°C, and Gulmarg 15.0°C—all significantly below average.
In Jammu division, similar trends were seen. Jammu city recorded 30.6°C, which is 3.4°C below normal. Banihal, Batote, Katra, and Bhaderwah also reported lower-than-usual temperatures.
Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the MeT Department, said more rain is expected across the Union Territory. From July 18 to 20, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at scattered to fairly widespread places. From July 21 to 23, cloudy skies with intermittent rain are expected at many locations. Heavy to very heavy showers are possible at isolated places during this period.
The MeT has issued a yellow alert for Kashmir until July 22. In Jammu, an orange alert is in place till July 19, followed by a yellow alert on July 20, and again an orange alert on July 21 and 22.
MeT data shows that nine stations, including Srinagar, reported normal rainfall. Udhampur, Reasi, and Samba recorded excess rainfall. However, five stations—Anantnag, Budgam, Doda, Ganderbal, and Kulgam—recorded deficit rainfall between 20% and 59%.
Kishtwar and Shopian reported significant shortfall, ranging between 60% and 99%. Rajouri was the only location with large excess rainfall this season.
An advisory has also been issued. It warns of possible intense rain at some locations between July 16–17 and July 21–23. There is a risk of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in hilly and vulnerable areas. (KNO)
