A severe heatwave continued to affect several parts of Jammu division on Wednesday, while the Meteorological Department forecast thunderstorms, gusty winds, and hailstorms across Jammu and Kashmir over the next two days. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, many areas in both Kashmir and Jammu divisions are expected to receive light rain, thundershowers, and gusty winds during the afternoon and evening hours on May 21.
The weather department also issued an advisory warning of thunder, lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds with speeds of 40–50 kmph, gusting beyond 60 kmph at isolated places across the Union Territory.
Officials said generally dry weather is expected from May 22 to 25, although some isolated areas may continue to witness brief afternoon showers. From May 26 to 28, weather conditions are likely to remain mainly hot and dry.
Jammu Records Extreme Heat
Jammu recorded a maximum temperature of 42 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, nearly four degrees above the seasonal average.
Kathua emerged as one of the hottest places in the Union Territory with temperatures reaching 43.8 degrees Celsius, around 5.7 degrees above normal.
Meanwhile, Samba witnessed intense heat as the mercury settled at a scorching 45.7 degrees Celsius.
Warm Conditions Continue in Kashmir Valley
In the Kashmir division, Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 30.7 degrees Celsius, which is 5.3 degrees above normal for this time of year.
Qazigund recorded 30.2 degrees Celsius, while Kupwara settled at 28.3 degrees Celsius.
Popular tourist destinations also experienced warmer conditions. Pahalgam recorded a maximum temperature of 22.4 degrees Celsius, while Gulmarg settled at 21.6 degrees Celsius.
The minimum temperature in Srinagar was recorded at 17.8 degrees Celsius, more than six degrees above normal, indicating unusually warm nights across the Valley.
Advisory Issued
The MeT Department advised residents, especially those living in vulnerable areas, to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid open spaces during lightning activity.
Authorities also warned that gusty winds and isolated hailstorms could disrupt outdoor activities in several districts over the coming days.