SRINAGAR: The heatwave gripping Jammu and Kashmir is set to worsen over the next few days, prompting the Meteorological (MeT) Department to issue an urgent advisory. Residents, particularly pregnant women, children, and the elderly, are strongly urged to take immediate precautions to stay safe and hydrated.
The MeT department has highlighted a significant rise in daytime temperatures across the Union Territory. Yesterday, Jammu recorded a scorching 40.4°C, while Srinagar reached 30.0°C, marking one of the hottest spells of the season thus far. Other areas, including Batote, Banihal, Bhaderwah, Qazigund, Kokernag, and Kupwara, also experienced unusually high temperatures, hovering around the high 20s and low 30s. Even popular tourist destinations like Pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded temperatures of 24.5°C and 20.0°C, respectively.
MeT Director, Mr. Mukhtar Ahmad, stated that generally dry weather is expected to continue across the region until Sunday evening. However, there is a silver lining on the horizon. The forecast indicates a likelihood of rain, thundershowers, and gusty winds in scattered locations starting Sunday evening. This weather shift is expected to become more widespread on Monday, bringing potential relief to parts of the Union Territory. Dry weather is likely to return from May 20th to May 22nd.
Precautionary Measures:
In light of the intensifying heatwave, the MeT department and health officials are emphasizing the following precautions:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks, tea, coffee, and alcohol, as these can lead to dehydration. Consider consuming oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or homemade drinks like lemon water or buttermilk with a pinch of salt.
- Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Try to stay indoors or in the shade during the hottest part of the day, typically between 12 noon and 3 pm. If you must go out, schedule activities for the cooler morning or evening hours.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin.
- Keep Your Home Cool: Close curtains and blinds during the day to block out sunlight. Open windows at night to allow cooler air to circulate. Use fans or air conditioners if available. You can also create a cooling effect by hanging damp cloths near open windows.
- Take Extra Care of Vulnerable Groups: Pay close attention to pregnant women, infants, young children, and the elderly. Ensure they are staying hydrated and cool. Never leave children or pets in closed vehicles.
- Monitor for Heat-Related Illnesses: Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion (fatigue, dizziness, heavy sweating, nausea) and heatstroke (confusion, unconsciousness, high body temperature). Seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms develop.
Farmers have been advised to continue their agricultural operations until the afternoon of May 18th, taking advantage of the dry weather window before the expected rainfall.
The public is urged to heed the advisory and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families during this intense heatwave.
