Srinagar, May 23: The intense heatwave sweeping through Jammu and Kashmir has set new records, with Srinagar experiencing its hottest day in over a decade during May. As per the meteorological department, the summer capital recorded a punishing maximum of 32.2°C on Thursday, surpassing the previous day’s 31.6°C. This temperature was a staggering 7.4°C above normal for the season.
Officials confirmed that Srinagar’s 32.2°C was the highest maximum recorded in May in the last 10 years, with the previous high being 31.9°C on May 22, 2016. The all-time record for Srinagar in May remains 36.4°C set on May 24, 1968.
The meteorological department has warned that the “heatwave” conditions over the plains of Jammu and Kashmir are likely to persist for the next six days until May 28. Dry weather is expected during this period, with only isolated chances of thundershowers providing temporary relief.
Both the Jammu and Kashmir divisions are in the grip of a heatwave that is predicted to continue raging over the plains for the next six days, as per the weather advisory. Even the hilly districts can expect hot and dry conditions during this period.
Amid the rising temperatures, authorities have urged people to avoid heat exposure, stay hydrated and take precautions, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, infants and children.
The night temperatures have also witnessed an increasing trend, with Srinagar recording 15°C, which was 3.3°C above normal. Other stations like Qazigund, Pahalgam, Kokernag, Kupwara and Gulmarg experienced warmer than usual nights as well.
As the heatwave tightens its grip, residents across the region are bracing for more sweltering days ahead, even as concerns mount over the potential impact on health, agriculture and energy demands over the coming weeks.
