Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD): Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, witnessed an unusually hot day today as the mercury soared to 35.3°C, a staggering 5.7°C above normal for this time of the year. The intense heatwave sweeping through the Kashmir Valley has pushed temperatures several degrees above seasonal averages, triggering concern among residents and health authorities.
According to data compiled by Kashmir Weather, Qazigund wasn’t far behind, recording 34.4°C—6.9°C above normal, making it one of the hottest locations in the region today. Other popular tourist and residential zones also bore the brunt of the heat:
Pahalgam: 30.2°C (+5.5°C AN)
Kupwara: 35.4°C (+3.4°C AN)
Kokernag: 33.4°C (+5.1°C AN)
Gulmarg: 26.0°C (+3.0°C AN)
In stark contrast, the Jammu region experienced near-normal or slightly below-normal temperatures. Jammu city recorded 35.0°C, actually 1.0°C below normal, offering a rare case of the winter capital being cooler than the valley. Other Jammu region readings included:
Banihal: 29.8°C (+1.0°C AN)
Batote: 27.0°C (–0.4°C BN)
Bhaderwah: 32.3°C (–1.9°C BN)
Katra: 32.0°C (–0.9°C BN)
Meanwhile, the high-altitude cold desert of Ladakh wasn’t spared either. Leh recorded a hot 31.0°C, and Kargil peaked at 35.4°C, raising eyebrows over warming trends in the region.
The persistently high temperatures, especially in the Kashmir Valley, have led to increased demand for electricity and water, while hospitals report a rise in heat-related complaints. Authorities have urged the public to stay indoors during peak hours, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities until the weather stabilises.
With no major rainfall predicted in the coming days, the valley may continue to simmer under oppressive heat, making it one of the hottest spells in recent summers.(DD)