Jammu and Srinagar scorch at 35.6°C, highest July temps in decade

Jammu and Srinagar recorded identical high temperatures of 35.6°C on Wednesday, with Srinagar experiencing a significant 5.7°C rise above normal, marking the highest temperatures for the month in a decade. According to the meteorological center, this heatwave is unusual for the region, which is known for its moderate climate.

"Earlier, on July 4 this year, the summer capital Srinagar recorded 35.7°C. This is the highest in a decade," said MeT director Mukhtar Ahmad. The intense heat has impacted daily life, prompting the school education department to adjust school timings to start earlier at 8 am and end at 1 pm.

Other areas in the Kashmir valley, such as Qazigund, Kupwara, and Shopian, also recorded significantly high temperatures, exceeding normal levels by several degrees. In the Jammu division, temperatures soared even higher, with Samba and Kathua reaching 38.7°C and 37.8°C, respectively.

The meteorological center forecasts a brief spell of rain and thundershowers at isolated places in the Kashmir division and light to moderate rain at many places in the Jammu division from July 24-26. "Intense showers for a brief period with the possibility of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones over a few vulnerable places of Jammu division. Hot & humid weather to prevail till July 26 over Kashmir division," the update said.