Jammu: As the mercury continues to soar across Jammu and Kashmir, the Meteorological Department has issued an alert for intense weather activity between July 5 and 8, warning of flash floods, landslides, and a significant rise in water levels in rivers and streams, especially in the Jammu division.
On Friday, Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 35.3°C, making it the second-hottest day of the season in the summer capital. The highest so far was 35.5°C, recorded twice last month on June 20 and 24. Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng told KNO that temperatures are expected to climb even further on Saturday, with no major relief until the beginning of next week.
Qazigund recorded 34.4°C, while Kupwara, one of the hotter spots today, saw the mercury touch 35.4°C. Tourist destinations like Pahalgam and Gulmarg remained relatively cooler at 30.2°C and 26.0°C, respectively.
In Jammu region, however, temperatures remained below the season’s average. Jammu city recorded 35.0°C, while Katra and Bhaderwah reported 32.0°C and 32.3°C. Banihal settled at 29.8°C, and Batote remained relatively mild at 27.0°C.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director, Meteorological Department, said that hot and humid conditions will persist on July 5, though there is a possibility of light to moderate rainfall late in the evening. He added that from July 6 to July 8, the Union Territory is likely to witness generally cloudy skies, with intermittent light to moderate rain/thundershowers across many areas.
The department has issued a weather advisory, warning of flash floods in vulnerable locations, landslides/mudslides, and shooting stones, especially in hilly and landslide-prone regions during July 6–8. Citizens are also advised to stay alert due to the likelihood of waterlogging in low-lying areas and a rise in water levels in streams and rivers.
The MeT has predicted brief spells of showers between July 10 and 12, while major relief from the ongoing heatwave is expected from Monday, giving residents across the Union Territory a much-needed break from the sweltering conditions.
With the Amarnath Yatra underway and thousands of pilgrims trekking through the region, the administration and local authorities are expected to remain on high alert to ensure safety in light of the forecast.
