Srinagar sizzles at 33.3 degrees Celsius
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD) Jammu and Kashmir is currently in the grip of an intense heatwave, with maximum temperatures recorded across the region soaring significantly above normal levels. Data compiled by Kashmir Weather shows that both Kashmir and Jammu regions experienced unusually high temperatures on Sunday, raising concerns over heat-related health issues and energy demands.
In the Kashmir Valley, Qazigund recorded the highest anomaly with a maximum temperature of 33.6°C, which is 6.8°C above normal, followed closely by Srinagar at 33.3°C—5.3°C above the average. Pahalgam, a popular hill station, reported 28.7°C, still 4.8°C above normal, while even the usually cool Gulmarg touched 23.0°C, about 4.3°C higher than usual.
Kashmir Region Maximums:
Srinagar: 33.3°C (+5.3°C)
Qazigund: 33.6°C (+6.8°C)
Pahalgam: 28.7°C (+4.8°C)
Kupwara: 32.5°C (+4.5°C)
Kokernag: 30.8°C (+4.2°C)
Gulmarg: 23.0°C (+4.3°C)
The Jammu division continued to face extreme heat, with the winter capital Jammu city peaking at 44.3°C, which is 4.7°C above normal. Tourist hotspot Katra reported 40.2°C, while Batote and Bhaderwah also experienced heat stress with temperatures 5.5°C and 3.2°C above the seasonal norm respectively.
Jammu Region Maximums:
Jammu: 44.3°C (+4.7°C)
Banihal: 32.8°C (+4.3°C)
Batote: 33.6°C (+5.5°C)
Bhaderwah: 33.0°C (+3.2°C)
Katra: 40.2°C (+4.2°C)
In Ladakh, the mercury remained moderate but notable, with Leh recording 26.9°C and Kargil at 27.9°C.
Authorities have advised the public to avoid exposure during peak hours, stay hydrated, and monitor vulnerable groups amid the heatwave. Weather experts suggest the hot spell is likely to continue over the coming days, with little to no immediate relief in sight.(DD)