Srinagar, June 24, 2025 – Srinagar, the heart of Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital, endured its fourth hottest June night in 134 years, with the mercury settling at 23.2°C on June 21, 2025, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This blistering night, part of the 21-day summer period known as ‘Wahrat,’ marks a significant departure from the Valley’s typically cool climate, intensifying concerns about climate change.
The scorching night temperature, the warmest since June 24, 1990 (23.6°C), follows a record-breaking daytime high of 35.5°C on June 20, the hottest June day in two decades. Historical data places the all-time highest June night at 24.6°C, recorded on June 29, 1978. Independent weather analyst Faizan Arif Keng noted that the 23.2°C reading ties with June 15, 2008, underscoring the rarity of such heat.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Night Temperature | 23.2°C (June 21, 2025), 4th highest in 134 years |
| Historical Highs | 24.6°C (June 29, 1978); 23.6°C (June 24, 1990); 23.2°C (June 15, 2008) |
| Day Temperature | 35.5°C (June 20, 2025), highest in 20 years |
| Other Regions | Kupwara: 33.5°C; Qazigund: 33.4°C; Pahalgam: 28.8°C; Gulmarg: 25.2°C |
| Response Measures | School closure (June 23–July 7); adjusted timings: 8 AM–1 PM (Srinagar) |
The heatwave has engulfed the Kashmir Valley, with temperatures soaring above normal in Kupwara (33.5°C), Qazigund (33.4°C), Kokernag (32.6°C), and even tourist havens like Pahalgam (28.8°C) and Gulmarg (25.2°C). On June 23, Srinagar recorded a daytime high of 34.6°C, 4.8°C above average, with forecasts predicting 35–36°C on June 24. The IMD attributes the extreme conditions to climate change, warning of continued hot and humid weather until June 24, with relief expected from June 25 due to potential rain and thunderstorms.
Authorities have responded decisively, announcing a 15-day school closure across Kashmir from June 23 to July 7, 2025, to safeguard students. School timings have been adjusted to 8 AM–1 PM within Srinagar’s municipal limits and 8:30 AM–1:30 PM elsewhere. Social media posts on X reflect public frustration, with residents describing the heat as “unprecedented” and urging action on environmental challenges.
As Srinagar grapples with this historic heatwave, the record-breaking temperatures highlight the growing impact of climate change on the Valley’s climate, prompting calls for sustainable measures to mitigate future extremes.
