*No relief expected in next 48 hrs
Govind Sharma
JAMMU, June 10: The Jammu region continued to sizzle under an intense and unrelenting heatwave, with temperatures soaring across multiple districts for the fourth consecutive day today. Samba emerged as the hottest location in the region on Sunday, recording a blistering 46.6°C – the highest temperature registered so far this season – while Jammu city recorded 44.4°C.
Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp
According to the Meteorological Department, the extreme heat has gripped at least five districts, all of which reported mercury levels above 40°C. These include Samba, Jammu, Kathua, Ramban and Reasi. In both Jammu and Kathua, temperatures hovered around 44.4°C, exacerbating public discomfort and raising serious concerns about heat-related illnesses, water shortages, and electricity demand.
In the holy town of Katra, located in Reasi district and a major pilgrimage hub for devotees visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine, the maximum temperature touched 40.6°C. The combination of sweltering heat and high humidity has made conditions particularly taxing for both pilgrims and locals, with limited relief even during evening hours.
Across the region, life has come to a standstill. Bazaars, roads, and lanes wore a deserted look throughout the day, as most people preferred to remain indoors, venturing out only for essential activities or emergencies. Commercial activity dipped sharply, and outdoor workers bore the brunt of the scorching sun. To beat the heat, many residents, especially children, were seen bathing and cooling off in the popular Ranbir Canal of Jammu – a familiar summer refuge for locals during extreme heat.
In stark contrast, the Kashmir valley experienced relatively moderate temperatures. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded a high of 33.5°C – still above its seasonal average. Other notable readings included Qazigund at 34.0°C, Pahalgam at 29.2°C, Kupwara at 31.6°C, Kokernag at 32.2°C, and Gulmarg, which remained the coolest at 23.0°C.
Meteorological officials attributed the prolonged heatwave to persistent dry northwesterly winds and clear skies dominating the weather pattern. They warned that the heatwave is expected to persist for at least the next 48 hours and urged residents to take necessary precautions.
“Citizens are advised to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, stay well hydrated, and take protective measures during peak afternoon hours,” said a senior official from the Meteorological Department.
Authorities have also issued special advisories for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with existing medical conditions. Emergency services have been put on high alert across the affected areas.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
