A sharp contrast in weather conditions was witnessed across Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, as Kashmir witnessed overnight rainfall, while intense heat continued to grip the Jammu plains.
Intermittent rain lashed several parts of the Valley, including Srinagar, through the night and into Saturday morning, leading to a significant drop in temperatures. Higher reaches, including Zoji La Pass, also received light snowfall.
The rainfall ended the recent spell of unusually warm weather in Kashmir. Srinagar, which had recorded a maximum temperature of 28.1°C on Friday—over six degrees above normal—saw the mercury fall to 21.2°C on Saturday, nearly seven degrees lower and slightly below the seasonal average. Most stations across the Valley also reported below-normal daytime temperatures.
In contrast, Jammu continued to reel under heatwave conditions, with the maximum temperature soaring to 39.5°C, over five degrees above normal. The minimum temperature also remained above average at 22.8°C.
Similarly, Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, recorded a high of 36°C, significantly above normal levels. The persistent rise in both day and night temperatures has resulted in uncomfortable conditions, particularly during afternoon hours.
The Meteorological Department has forecast generally dry weather in Kashmir on Sunday, but predicted a fresh spell of light rain, thundershowers, and gusty winds at scattered places from Monday onwards. A brief spell of rain and thunder is also likely at a few locations on April 29 and 30.
Meanwhile, hot and dry conditions, along with isolated heatwave spells, are expected to persist across the plains of Jammu division over the next four days. Authorities have advised residents to take precautions, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and stay hydrated.(KINS)
