SRINAGAR: Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 33.9°C on Wednesday, nearly 6°C above normal, as an intense heatwave continued to sweep across Jammu and Kashmir, with no significant relief expected for the next three days.
The Kashmir Valley witnessed unusually high temperatures, with Qazigund registering a scorching 34.6°C. As per data compiled by Kashmir Weather, this equals the third-highest maximum temperature in June ever recorded at the station since 1962. The same temperature was recorded on 23 June 2023, while the second highest stands at 35.3°C (27 June 1988) and the all-time record remains 35.7°C (26 June 1988).
Other areas also saw significant departures from seasonal norms. Kupwara and Kokernag both recorded 32.8°C, Pahalgam touched 28.8°C, and the hill resort of Gulmarg registered 24.0°C, all several degrees above their usual June averages.
In the Jammu division, the mercury soared even higher. Jammu city peaked at a sweltering 44.4°C, which is 5.6°C above normal. Katra recorded 40.6°C, Banihal 34.1°C, Batote 33.3°C, and Bhaderwah 34.4°C, media reports said.
Leh registered a temperature of 26.0°C.
Authorities have advised residents, particularly the elderly and children, to avoid outdoor exposure between 12 PM and 4 PM, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions amid the ongoing heatwave.
