Kashmir Sizzles as Heatwave Hits: MeT Issues Alerts for Weather Shift

Srinagar: In an unexpected turn of events, Kashmir experienced its hottest day of the season on Tuesday, with Srinagar recording a sweltering 30.4°C ; a striking 10.2°C above the seasonal average. According to the Meteorological Department, this marks one of the highest April temperatures recorded in the region in decades, just shy of the all-time high of 31.1°C set on April 20, 1946.

The heatwave wasn’t confined to Srinagar alone. Several other parts of the Valley also witnessed unusually high temperatures. Qazigund peaked at 29.8°C, Kupwara at 29.5°C, Kokernag at 27.5°C, and Pahalgam at 25.4°C, all setting seasonal highs. Even Gulmarg, known for its snow-clad slopes, reported a surprising 20.7°C, exceeding the norm by a staggering 11.2°C.

In response to the unusual weather conditions, the Meteorological Department has issued yellow and orange alerts for April 18 and 19, signalling a notable change in the weather pattern. A yellow alert, indicating the need for caution, is in place for parts of Jammu and Kashmir on April 18. This will be followed by both yellow and orange alerts on April 19, with the latter advising preparedness and close monitoring of weather developments.

While the next couple of days are expected to remain mostly dry, a fresh western disturbance is likely to affect the region starting April 18. The system is expected to bring light to moderate rainfall and snow over higher altitudes, with some areas facing moderate to heavy precipitation, gusty winds, and thunderstorms , especially from the evening of April 18 onward.

The unsettled weather is expected to persist through April 20. On April 21, skies will likely remain overcast, with scattered rain and thunder anticipated. A brief dry spell is forecast between April 22 and 25, before another phase of cloudy conditions may return around April 26 and 27.

Given the evolving situation, the MeT Department has urged tourists, travellers, and transport operators to stay updated with official advisories and plan their movements accordingly. Farmers have also been advised to complete any critical agricultural activities by April 17, as the incoming weather system could lead to landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas.

With both record-breaking heat and turbulent weather ahead, residents are being encouraged to stay alert and prepared for swift changes in climatic conditions.