Srinagar: Kashmir continued to reel under heatwave conditions on Tuesday, with Srinagar recording a maximum temperature of 35.2°C, the second-highest of the season, even as the Meteorological Department forecast relief from Wednesday with the arrival of monsoon winds and a fresh western disturbance.
Officials at the Meteorological Centre said the prevailing heatwave conditions are expected to subside from Wednesday as rain, thundershowers and gusty winds are likely to affect several parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days.
According to the department, heatwave or heatwave-like conditions are likely to persist through Tuesday before temperatures begin to decline.
Rain and thundershowers are expected at many places in Poonch, Rajouri, Shopian, Budgam and Kulgam, while isolated rainfall is also likely along the Reasi–Banihal–Ramban axis and in Gulmarg, Uri and Sonamarg.
The weather office said a few places in Poonch, Rajouri, Budgam, Shopian, Kulgam and adjoining areas could witness brief but intense showers accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds.
It has forecast one or two spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers across Jammu and Kashmir from July 1 to July 5, with isolated places likely to receive heavy rainfall, intense showers, thunderstorms and strong winds between July 2 and July 4.
From July 6 to July 8, the weather is expected to remain generally hot and humid, although scattered to fairly widespread light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely.
Officials said monsoon winds are expected to enter Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. The combined influence of the advancing monsoon and a western disturbance is likely to provide significant relief from the ongoing heatwave, particularly between Thursday and Saturday, when rainfall activity is expected to peak.
The department said rainfall is likely to be more pronounced over the Jammu division and south Kashmir, while central and north Kashmir may receive comparatively lesser precipitation.
The Meteorological Department has warned that heavy rainfall during July 2 to 4 could trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides in vulnerable areas, particularly in parts of the Jammu division and adjoining areas of south Kashmir. Temporary waterlogging is also likely in low-lying areas on July 2 and 3.
People have been advised to stay away from streams, nallahs and landslide-prone areas during periods of intense rainfall, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during thunderstorms, and take precautions against lightning, strong winds and the possibility of isolated hailstorms.
