SRINAGAR: A severe heatwave has gripped the Kashmir Valley, with temperatures soaring significantly above seasonal averages. However, relief is on the horizon as the Meteorological Department (MeT) forecasts the end of the heatwave this week, with chances of rain expected to bring down temperatures.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the Director of the MeT Department, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, stated that the intense heat conditions are likely to persist for another 48 hours. Temperatures in Srinagar have already reached as high as 35.3 degrees Celsius, marking it as the highest temperature recorded for June. Across the Kashmir Valley, maximum temperatures have been 4 to 8 degrees Celsius above normal, leading to heatwave conditions in many areas. Similar heat is expected to continue through Monday, with some models predicting Srinagar’s maximum temperature to reach between 35°C and 37°C on Sunday, and potentially higher on Monday.
The MeT has indicated that the heatwave conditions in Kashmir are expected to ease from Wednesday, with a further drop in temperatures anticipated from Thursday. This anticipated relief is attributed to the arrival of a Western Disturbance. Information was available with The Chenab Times that a fresh Western Disturbance, interacting with advancing monsoon winds, is expected to affect Jammu and Kashmir between July 1 and July 5. This system is predicted to bring widespread rain, thunderstorms, gusty winds, lightning, and isolated hailstorms to the region.
While the Kashmir region has been experiencing severe heat, the Jammu region has seen more monsoon-like conditions, with scattered showers in some parts over the past 48 hours. However, the approaching monsoon is expected to bring significant rainfall to the Jammu region around July 1, with heavy to very heavy rainfall predicted for July 2 and 3. Officials have cautioned about the potential for flash floods, landslides, and mudslides in the Jammu region due to the intense rainfall. Waterlogging in low-lying areas has also been flagged as a concern, and residents have been advised to remain alert.
The MeT chief explained that the monsoon has already progressed through parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand and is expected to move into Himachal Pradesh before reaching Jammu and Kashmir. The forecast suggests that the Valley will witness mainly dry and hot weather for the next two days, with only isolated afternoon showers expected. Farmers have been advised to continue field preparation and transplantation work but to avoid irrigation from July 1 onwards due to the expected rainfall. Spraying operations should be conducted in the morning and evening hours.
Weather experts have advised the public to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The approaching monsoon system is expected to bring down temperatures across Kashmir and provide much-needed relief from the current heatwave.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
