The Meteorological Department (MeT) on Thursday issued a forecast predicting a significant rise in day temperatures across Jammu and Kashmir over the next 48 hours, with conditions becoming favorable for a heat spell.
Officials at the MeT Centre in Srinagar told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) that mainly dry weather would prevail in the Union Territory for the next few days. This prolonged dry spell is expected to push day temperatures several notches above the normal range for this time of the year.
“The weather will remain mainly clear and dry. As a result, a gradual increase in both day and night temperatures is likely. Maximum temperatures are expected to settle appreciably above normal during this period,” an official said.
The sudden spike in the mercury stands in sharp contrast to the cold conditions witnessed last week.
An independent weather forecaster, Faizan Arif, also confirmed to Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the plains across Jammu and Kashmir would be particularly affected, with the likelihood of heat wave-like conditions developing by the end of the week.
The forecast has raised concerns among various quarters. Authorities have advised people, especially those in low-lying areas of the Jammu division and the Kashmir Valley, to exercise caution and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Officials stated that the dry and hot conditions are expected to persist, urging residents to remain hydrated and prepare for the warmer days ahead. The impact of the rising temperatures on standing crops and orchards is also being monitored, they added. (KNS)
