SRINAGAR, July 3: Kashmir is currently experiencing a heatwave with day temperatures soaring to record highs, though some respite is expected later this week, officials reported on Wednesday. On Tuesday, Srinagar recorded a temperature of 34.6 degrees Celsius, surpassing Kolkata, which registered a maximum of 31 degrees Celsius.
This marks Srinagar’s hottest day of the season and the second-highest temperature recorded in the city during July over the past decade. The highest July temperature in the last decade was 35 degrees Celsius, recorded on July 18, 2021.
Officials noted that temperatures across the valley were approximately five degrees above normal. Srinagar’s maximum temperature was notably higher than the seasonal average. Kupwara, in north Kashmir, also recorded 34.6 degrees Celsius, while Qazigund in the south reached 34 degrees Celsius on Monday.
The rising temperatures and intense heat over recent weeks have led to water shortages in many areas. The health department has issued advisories to help residents cope with the heatwave conditions, and the school education department has announced a 10-day summer vacation starting July 8.
The extreme heat has prompted residents to stay indoors and has driven up sales of cooling devices such as air conditioners, fans, and coolers. Commuters are facing difficulties, especially in the city traffic, leading many to seek car AC services to ensure their cooling systems are functioning properly.
The meteorological department forecasts continued hot and humid weather on Wednesday, with potential relief on Thursday through intermittent light to moderate rain or thundershowers at many locations. From July 5-6, moderate rainfall is expected across many areas of Jammu and Kashmir, with heavy spells in some places. Light rainfall is possible on July 7, but hot and humid conditions are likely to return from July 8 to 10.
