JAMMU, APR 26 : Jammu division baked under intense heatwave conditions on Saturday, with the city clocking a scorching 40.2°C—5.7°C above normal—while intermittent rains cooled Kashmir valley.
Chatha observatory near SKUAST-Jammu hit 40°C, up from Friday’s mark, restricting midday movement as dry, hot weather persists. Chief Scientist Dr. Mahender Singh noted rising temperatures in Jammu plains and adjoining Punjab, blaming abnormal March-April patterns: cold earlier, now spiking past 40°C. On potential Mideast war impacts from US-Israel-Iran conflict, he said heavy explosions release heat and gases affecting the atmosphere and beyond.
Jammu city’s minimum was 22.8°C (2°C above normal). Katra sweltered at 36°C max (6.2°C high) and 23°C min (5.4°C high). Banihal night temp: 13.4°C (+4.1°C); Bhaderwah: 13.0°C (+4.2°C); Batote day: 27.1°C (+3.9°C). Srinagar and Pahalgam saw highs 5-6.2°C above normal Friday.
Kashmir got relief from overnight-to-morning rains, with light Zojila snowfall. Srinagar dropped to 21.2°C Saturday (below normal, down 7°C from Friday’s 28.1°C). Valley stations reported sub-normal daytime temps post-rain.
Met predicts hot, dry Jammu plains with isolated heatwaves for four days; advise hydration, limited sun exposure. Kashmir: dry Sunday, light rain/thunder possible Monday, April 29-30.
