Jammu sizzles at 39.5 deg C amid heatwave in plains

Jammu, Apr 25: Jammu sweltered on Saturday as heatwave conditions gripped the plains, with the city recording a high of 39.5 degrees Celsius — 5.1 notches above normal, officials said.

The minimum temperature in the city also remained above average at 22.8 degrees Celsius, 2.0 degrees above normal, a meteorological department spokesperson said.

Katra town, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine atop Trikuta hills in Reasi district, also witnessed a sharp rise in temperatures, recording a maximum of 36 degrees Celsius, 6.2 degrees above normal, while the minimum temperature settled at 23.0 degrees Celsius, 5.4 degrees above normal.

The persistent rise in both day and night temperatures has led to uncomfortable conditions, particularly during afternoon hours.

The Meteorological Department predicted that hot and dry weather with isolated heatwave conditions is likely to continue over the plains of Jammu division for the next four days.

Residents have been advised to take precautions, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and stay hydrated amid the prevailing sweltering conditions.