Authorities Mull Early Summer Break as Heatwave Grips J&K

IMD's Srinagar center says similar weather conditions will prevail for 3 days

- Dar Ovais

SRINAGAR: Owing to a dry spell, Jammu and Kashmir is reeling under a heatwave for the past three days with temperatures hovering 4-7 degrees above normal, making it the second time the Himalayan region is suffering from a stint of unusually hot weather in less than a month.

The heatwave has prompted the education authorities in Jammu and Kashmir to think over early summer break.

The Indian Meteorological Department's Srinagar centre said that the spell will continue for another three days.

"Severe heat wave at scattered places of J&K during next three days. People should take sufficient fluids and avoid outdoor activities during peak intensity (between 12 noon and 4 pm)," said Srinagar MeT centre's director, Mukhtar Ahmad.

"Farmers are, however, advised to continue farm operations," he said.

The Himalayan Valley has witnessed day temperatures between 29-34°C since June 9.

The meteorological centre said that Srinagar in Kashmir recorded a maximum of 33.5°C on Tuesday, some 5.5 notches above normal. Wednesday's temp details are yet to arrive.

The update said that Qazigund, the gateway into south Kashmir, was hottest at 34°C, some 7.3 degrees above normal, while Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded 31.6°C, some 3.4 degrees above normal.