Natika Bhat
Srinagar June : 23 The Kashmir Valley is grappling with an early spell of intense heat as Srinagar city recorded a maximum temperature of 34.6°C on Monday, which is 5.4°C above the normal average for this time of the year according to Kashmir Weather.
Other parts of the Valley also experienced unusually high temperatures. Qazigund recorded 33.4°C, Kupwara 33.5°C, Kukernag 32.6°C, Gulmarg 25.2°C, and Pahalgam 28.6°C. In Jammu region, Jammu city recorded 36.6°C, Banihal 30.5°C, Batote 29.1°C, Bhaderwah 32.0°C, and Katra 32.5°C. The higher reaches of Ladakh weren’t spared either, with Leh touching 28.6°C and Kargil 31.5°C.
The Kashmir Weather team has issued a heatwave alert for the Kashmir Valley, urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak hours.
This extended heatwave comes as a rare occurrence for the region known for its generally mild summer climate. Authorities and health officials have advised people, especially the elderly and children, to remain indoors during the afternoon and to minimize strenuous outdoor activities.