The Kashmir valley is grappling with an intense and unseasonal heatwave, with temperatures soaring above normal for the past few days, the official said, advising residents to take precautions.
The MeT office in Srinagar has issued heatwave alerts for various parts of the valley, warning that above-normal temperatures are likely to persist in the coming days.
The soaring temperatures have forced the administration to change school timings as employees are also struggling to cope with the heatwave in the offices.
Administration has urged residents to stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure during peak hours from 1 to 4 pm, and be vigilant against heatstroke and dehydration.
Farookh Bhat, Scientific Officer at the MET Department in Srinagar, said, “Kashmir has been experiencing a heatwave for several days, but recent rains in many areas have slightly reduced the intensity.
Temperatures remain one to two degrees above normal. However, the weather is expected to change soon, with chances of cooler temperatures and light rain, especially in hilly regions, after the 28th.
If temperatures drop by around three degrees, the heatwave conditions are likely to ease within a week. We anticipate continued fluctuations in weather until then, with alternating periods of warmth and rainfall.”
Bhatt added, “The recent heatwave was due to temperatures rising to 36 degrees in May, which is quite late and unusual. After May 20, the pre-monsoon season causes a large difference between day and night temperatures.
When dry weather persists, daytime temperatures rise sharply, crossing 30-33 degrees, which qualifies as a heatwave.”
“While advisories are issued, they are not fully followed or enforced. People need to take precautions, but without proper implementation, the situation remains difficult. More action is needed to help cope with the harsh summer heat,” he stated.