Srinagar: After witnessing an intense spell of heat with Srinagar recording the highest temperature of the season, Jammu and Kashmir is likely to experience a major weather shift from Sunday, with the Meteorological Department forecasting widespread rainfall, thunderstorms and possible heavy to very heavy showers across the Union Territory.
According to the latest forecast issued by the MeT Department, fairly widespread to widespread moderate rain and thunderstorms are expected over Jammu and Kashmir during the next few days, with isolated heavy rainfall likely at several places.
The weather department has warned of possible landslides, mudslides, shooting stones, flash floods and waterlogging in vulnerable areas due to intense rainfall activity.
The heatwave-like conditions continued across Kashmir on Saturday, with Srinagar recording its hottest day of the season as the maximum temperature touched 35.9°C, around six degrees above normal.
The temperature was the highest recorded in the summer capital this year, though it remained below last year’s peak of 37.4°C recorded on July 6, 2025.
Several other Kashmir stations also witnessed unusually high temperatures. Kupwara recorded 35.6°C, while Ganderbal and Baramulla touched 34.5°C each. Shopian recorded 34.4°C, Pulwama 33.4°C, Kokernag 33.1°C, Bandipora 32.7°C and Qazigund 32.6°C.
The famous hill resort of Gulmarg remained relatively cooler with a maximum temperature of 25.6°C.
In Jammu division, Jammu city recorded 35°C, while Kathua recorded around 34.8°C. Poonch recorded 33.9°C, Udhampur 31.8°C, Rajouri 31.1°C and Katra 31°C.
The MeT Department has predicted rain and thunderstorms from July 19 to July 23, with generally cloudy skies and intermittent showers expected across the region.
The department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Jammu division, including Reasi, Udhampur, Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Rajouri, Doda, Ramban and Kishtwar districts.
Officials said intense rainfall spells could lead to a rise in water levels of rivers and streams, besides triggering flash floods and landslides in hilly and vulnerable areas.
The weather warning comes after Udhampur recorded the highest rainfall of 48.6 mm during the past 24 hours.
The MeT Department said weather conditions are likely to improve from July 24, although isolated spells of rain and thunderstorms may continue at some places till July 27.
People living in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall and follow official weather advisories.
Farmers have also been advised to avoid agricultural activities during intense weather conditions to prevent losses.
With the expected rainfall, the prolonged hot and humid conditions across Jammu and Kashmir are likely to ease, bringing relief to residents after days of above-normal temperatures.
