SRINAGAR: Srinagar recorded its hottest day of the season on Saturday as the maximum temperature climbed to 35.9°C, 5.8 degrees above normal, with intense heat gripping the Kashmir Valley ahead of a forecast spell of heavy rain from Sunday.
The city surpassed Friday’s maximum of 35°C, making Saturday the hottest day recorded in Srinagar so far this summer. Other parts of Kashmir also recorded significantly above-normal temperatures, with Kupwara at 35.6°C, Ganderbal and Baramulla at 34.5°C, Shopian at 34.4°C, Pulwama at 33.4°C, Kokernag at 33.1°C, Bandipora at 32.7°C, Qazigund at 32.6°C, and Pahalgam at 28.9°C. Gulmarg recorded a maximum of 25.6°C.
In the Jammu division, Jammu city recorded 35°C, while Kathua registered 34.8°C, Samba 34.1°C, Poonch 33.9°C, Udhampur 31.8°C, Bhaderwah 31.4°C, Rajouri 31.1°C, Katra 31°C, Kishtwar 30.3°C, Banihal 30.2°C, and Batote 27.5°C.
In Ladakh, Nubra Valley recorded the highest maximum temperature at 36.7°C, followed by Kargil at 35.8°C and Leh at 33.4°C.
The Meteorological Department has forecast a major change in weather from July 19, warning of heavy rainfall, flash floods and landslides in parts of Jammu and Kashmir during the coming week.
The soaring mercury led to heatwave-like conditions across the Valley, prompting many residents to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours. Parks, markets and other public places witnessed reduced activity as people avoided prolonged exposure to the heat.
Health experts have advised people to remain well-hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and take extra precautions, particularly for children, elderly people and those with underlying health conditions.
The sharp rise in temperature has also increased demand for electricity and drinking water, with residents relying heavily on cooling appliances to cope with the unusually hot weather.
