Srinagar: Kashmir is currently in the grip of an intense heatwave, with temperatures breaking long-standing records across several regions. Srinagar recorded its hottest June day in 20 years on Wednesday, with the mercury soaring to 35.2°C — the highest since June 25, 2005.
Independent weather expert Faizan Arif Keng confirmed that Srinagar’s temperature surpassed all June records from the past two decades. The all-time highest for the month in the city remains 34.9°C, recorded on June 29, 1978.
In Qazigund, the temperature reached 34.7°C — the highest June temperature in 37 years and the third-highest ever. Historical data shows the second-highest at 35.3°C and the all-time peak at 35.7°C, both in June 1988.
Kokernag also experienced a record-breaking day, registering 33.8°C, the second-highest June temperature in the last 27 years, closely following its 34.9°C peak in June 2005.
Another independent forecaster, Adil Maqbool, warned that temperatures in Srinagar and other lower regions of the Valley may rise further — potentially touching 35.5°C or even 36°C on Thursday. He noted that hot and dry weather would continue until June 21.
Elsewhere in Kashmir, Pahalgam recorded 29.6°C, Kupwara 33.1°C, and Gulmarg 25.9°C. Despite the scorching conditions in the Valley, some areas of Jammu division experienced relatively moderate temperatures. Jammu city recorded 36.5°C, while Katra was at 33.1°C. Banihal, Bhaderwah, and Batote recorded 30.6°C, 31.6°C, and 28.2°C, respectively.
The Meteorological Department has forecast continued heatwave conditions over the next two days, followed by possible relief in the form of isolated heavy rainfall. Until Friday, the weather will mostly remain dry with brief spells of rain, thundershowers, and gusty winds in some areas.
Director of Meteorology, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, said that between June 21 and 22, widespread cloud cover and intermittent rainfall are likely at several places. On June 23 and 24, the weather is expected to remain mostly dry with occasional light showers, while June 25 to 27 may bring more widespread rain and thunderstorms.
The MeT Department has also issued an advisory urging farmers to carry out agricultural activities only until June 20. Heavy rainfall in parts of Jammu on June 21–22 may trigger flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas. (KNO)
