MeT predicts hot, humid weather today

Srinagar, Jun 23: A relentless heatwave continued to grip Kashmir, with temperatures soaring well above normal across most areas. The Meteorological Centre Srinagar issued a fresh advisory, warning of continued hot and humid weather in the region through June 24, followed by a shift to potentially stormy and wet conditions later in the week.

On Monday, Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 34.6 degrees Celsius, which is 4.8 degrees Celsius above normal, making it one of the hottest days this season.

Other areas in Kashmir also reported abnormally high temperatures with Qazigund recording 33.4 degrees Celsius, 4 degrees Celsius above normal; Kupwara 33.5 degrees Celsius, 2.9 degrees Celsius above normal, Kokernag 32.6 degrees Celsius, 3.6 degrees Celsius above normal, Gulmarg, typically cooler, touched 23 degrees Celsius, 3 degrees Celsius above normal, and Pahalgam remained relatively mild at 24 degrees Celsius.

In contrast, parts of Jammu reported below-normal temperatures due to recent spells of rain. Jammu city recorded 36.6 degrees Celsius, 4.2 degrees Celsius below normal, while Banihal, Batote, and Bhaderwah also stayed closer to or below seasonal averages.

According to Srinagar MeT Centre, the weather is expected to change beginning June 25, likely to bring much-needed relief from the heat.

The forecast indicates that on 24, there will be continued hot and humid weather with a chance of isolated rain and thundershowers. From June 25 to 27, the weather will be generally cloudy with intermittent moderate rain and thundershowers, and the possibility of heavy rainfall at isolated places in the Jammu division.

From June 28 to July 2, there will be intermittent rain likely at scattered locations across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions.

A weather advisory has been issued for June 25 to 27, warning of moderate to heavy rainfall and intense showers in parts of Jammu division, risk of flash floods in vulnerable areas, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in hilly terrains, and waterlogging in low-lying urban areas and rise in river and stream levels. Farmers have been advised to suspend irrigation, spraying, and fertiliser application during this period to avoid damage to crops and agricultural infrastructure.