Srinagar, Jun 21: Kashmir is sweltering under an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels for the third consecutive day.
On Saturday, Srinagar recorded a scorching 34.8 degrees Celsius, 5.6 degrees Celsius above normal, surpassing even the usually hotter Jammu city, which recorded a comparatively cooler 33 degrees Celsius, 4.6 degrees Celsius below normal.
The Meteorological Department data reveals that several other towns in Kashmir experienced similar, if not worse, heat stress.
Qazigund recorded 35 degrees Celsius, 7.6 degrees Celsius above normal, Kokernag followed closely at 34.2 degrees Celsius, 7 degrees Celsius above normal, and Pahalgam resort hit 29.6 degrees Celsius, nearly 5 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average.
Kupwara and Gulmarg weren’t spared either, with the mercury touching 34.5 degrees Celsius and 25.7 degrees Celsius.
While scorching heat is causing widespread discomfort, it is also exacerbating an already concerning crisis – the depletion of water resources across the Valley.
Residents across Srinagar, Anantnag, Pulwama, and parts of south Kashmir have reported reduced water supply.
In rural areas, some families are forced to walk long distances to access safe drinking water.
“This is one of the harshest Junes in recent memory,” said Farooq Ahmad Bhat of Natnusa, Handwara. “Water shortage has started to hit us badly.”
According to the Jammu and Kashmir Jal Shakti Department officials, the prolonged heat spell has led to a sharp decline in natural water sources including springs, streams, and shallow wells.
“Due to the ongoing heatwave and prolonged dry spell, drinking water problems have started to erupt,” an Engineer of the Jal Shakti Department said. “The discharge levels in streams and water supply sources are dropping gradually.”
The Meteorological Department warned that the heatwave is likely to persist for the next few days, aggravating the crisis.
“The high-pressure system dominating the region is causing unusually high temperatures for this time of the year,” MeT officials said. “The gap between maximum temperatures in Kashmir and Jammu is a rare occurrence and a clear indicator of unusual climatic behaviour.”
The intense heatwave has prompted people to seek relief at local water bodies.
Lakes, rivers, and public swimming pools have seen a significant surge in visitors as residents look for ways to escape the oppressive heat.
Children can be seen taking a dip, relaxing under shade, or enjoying cool beverages by the water’s edge.
Authorities have urged people to stay hydrated and avoid peak afternoon hours outdoors.
The sweltering heat has led to a noticeable drop in footfall across markets and public spaces.
Local businesses, especially in open bazaars, report fewer customers during the day as people choose to stay indoors to avoid the heat.
Schools, government offices, and daily commuters are also feeling the brunt, with several institutions advising adjusted schedules or heat safety measures.
Health officials have urged people to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and watch for symptoms of heatstroke.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department forecasts little relief in the coming days, warning that the heatwave may persist through the week.
