Srinagar, May 16, 2025: Srinagar recorded a high of 30°C on Thursday, marking a significant temperature spike as heatwave conditions intensified across Jammu and Kashmir, with Jammu soaring to a scorching 40.4°C. The Meteorological Department has forecasted that the ongoing dry spell will continue across the region until the evening of May 18, with maximum temperatures expected to rise further, exacerbating the warm conditions.
According to the Meteorological Department, other areas in the region also experienced elevated temperatures, with Batote, Banihal, and Bhaderwah hitting around 30°C, Qazigund reaching 29.7°C, Kokernag at 28.4°C, and Kupwara at 27.9°C. Popular tourist destinations like Pahalgam recorded 24.5°C, while Gulmarg, relatively cooler, registered 20.0°C. Director of the Meteorological Department, Mukhtar Ahmad, confirmed that dry weather is expected to persist, with a possibility of intermittent light rain or thundershowers toward the evening of May 18 into May 19 at scattered locations.
The department issued an advisory warning of a significant rise in daytime temperatures over the next three days, particularly in the Jammu division, where conditions could become more uncomfortable. Farmers have been advised to continue agricultural operations, such as orchard spraying, until the afternoon of May 18 to take advantage of the dry weather. However, the prolonged dry spell and rising temperatures have raised concerns about water availability and heat stress, particularly in urban areas like Srinagar.
The forecast for May 20 to 22 suggests a return to generally dry conditions, but the immediate focus remains on managing the current heatwave. Authorities have urged residents to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun as Jammu and Kashmir braces for warmer days ahead.
