Jammu: Large parts of Jammu division continued to reel under intense heat on Friday, with Kathua emerging as the hottest place in Jammu and Kashmir at a scorching 41.8 degrees Celsius, even as the Meteorological Department forecast scattered rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across the Union Territory over the next 24 hours.
According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, maximum temperatures across several districts of Jammu division remained near or above seasonal averages, intensifying discomfort in the plains and foothill regions.
Jammu city recorded a maximum temperature of 39.4 degrees Celsius, while Samba touched 42.3 degrees Celsius. Udhampur recorded 36.2 degrees Celsius, Ramban 37.4 degrees Celsius, Poonch 36 degrees Celsius and Rajouri 31.8 degrees Celsius. Katra registered a day temperature of 34.1 degrees Celsius.
Night temperatures also remained relatively high in many areas of the Jammu region. Jammu city recorded a minimum temperature of 24.7 degrees Celsius, Kathua 24.8 degrees Celsius and Katra 22.6 degrees Celsius, indicating continued warm nights in the plains.
The MeT department said maximum day temperatures remained 0-2 degrees Celsius below normal at many places in Jammu division, though heat conditions persisted due to high humidity and prolonged dry weather. Very light rain and thunder activity were reported at isolated locations during the past 24 hours, with traces of rainfall recorded in Jammu and adjoining areas.
Officials said scattered light rain and thunderstorms are likely across Jammu and Kashmir during the next 24 hours. The weather department has issued a warning for isolated thunderstorms, lightning and strong gusty winds with speeds reaching 40-50 kmph and gusting up to 60 kmph in parts of Jammu division on Friday and Saturday.
“People are advised to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity, especially in vulnerable and open areas. Farmers, transporters and outdoor workers should stay updated with local weather advisories,” an MeT official said.
From May 31 onwards, weather conditions are expected to improve, with mainly dry weather likely across most parts of Jammu and Kashmir for several days.
In Kashmir division, Srinagar recorded the highest maximum temperature at 29.7 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam remained the coldest place with a minimum temperature of 5.3 degrees Celsius. Light rainfall was recorded in parts of south Kashmir, with Pahalgam receiving the highest precipitation of 2.2 mm.
The MeT department has advised residents to stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours as hot and humid conditions are expected to continue in the Jammu plains over the coming days.
