Srinagar, June 09: Jammu and Kashmir baked under a scorching heatwave on Monday as temperatures soared well above seasonal averages across the Union Territory, triggering health advisories.
According to data compiled by independent weather agency Kashmir Weather, Srinagar recorded a searing 33.3°C — 5.3°C above normal — while Qazigund emerged as the hottest spot in the Valley at 33.6°C, a staggering 6.8°C above average.
Other parts of Kashmir also recorded unusually high temperatures: Pahalgam at 28.7°C, Kokernag 30.8°C, Kupwara 32.5°C, and the normally cool Gulmarg touched 23.0°C — all well above the norm for June.
The heatwave was even more intense in the Jammu region, where Jammu city recorded a blistering 44.3°C, 4.7°C higher than average. Batote registered 33.6°C (5.5°C above normal), Katra 40.2°C, Banihal 32.8°C, and Bhaderwah 33.0°C, all showing significant departures from usual temperatures.
Meanwhile, Ladakh remained relatively cooler, with Leh at 26.9°C and Kargil at 27.9°C.
Experts have issued warnings and advised people to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, as the current heatwave is expected to persist in the coming days.