SRINAGAR: A fresh spell of heatwave has gripped Jammu and Kashmir, with temperatures rising for the second consecutive day on Wednesday.
According to the Meteorological Department, the Union Territory recorded a 26 per cent rainfall deficit in the ongoing month till June 18. Against the normal precipitation of 39.7 mm, only 29.5 mm of rainfall has been recorded in the past 18 days.
Samba and Kathua districts recorded the highest deficits at 72 per cent and 62 per cent, respectively. Most other stations, including Srinagar, Budgam, Baramulla, Bandipora, Ganderbal, Kishtwar, Kulgam, Poonch, Reasi, Shopian, and Udhampur, also reported shortfalls. Rajouri was the only station to record excess rainfall, while Anantnag, Doda, Jammu, Kupwara, and Ramban reported normal precipitation.
Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng said an intense heatwave is likely to persist over the next three days, with temperatures in Srinagar expected to exceed 35°C.
On Wednesday, Srinagar recorded a maximum of 32.5°C, Qazigund 31.4°C, Pahalgam 27.0°C, Kokernag 30.8°C, Kupwara 30.5°C, and Gulmarg 22.8°C. In the Jammu division, temperatures remained below normal, with Jammu city recording 37.6°C, Banihal 29.4°C, Batote 27.8°C, Katra 35.2°C, and Bhaderwah 30.8°C.
The MeT Department has predicted generally dry weather until June 20, with brief spells of rain or thundershowers and gusty winds possible at isolated places. Between June 21 and 22, cloudy weather with intermittent rain and thundershowers is expected at many locations.
Dry conditions are likely to return on June 23 and 24, with brief light rain or thundershowers possible at isolated spots. From June 25 to 27, generally cloudy weather with intermittent light to moderate rainfall is forecast at many places.
An advisory issued by the MeT Department has urged farmers to continue their agricultural activities till June 20. It also warned of moderate to heavy rainfall in parts of the Jammu division on June 21 and 22, with possible flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones at vulnerable locations. (KNO)
