Srinagar swelters as city records third highest May temperature in 133 years

Srinagar: Srinagar sizzled under an intense heat wave on Thursday, recording its third highest-ever temperature for May in 133 years, according to weather officials and independent forecasters.

The mercury soared to a scorching 34.4°C, surpassing previous records and making it the hottest day of the season so far in the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. According to the local MeT office, today’s maximum temperature was 9°C above normal.

Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng confirmed that Thursday’s temperature marks a significant weather milestone. “Srinagar recorded the season’s highest day temperature today at 34.4°C, which is also the third highest-ever temperature in May since records began,” Keng said.

The previous record stood at 34.3°C, recorded on May 28, 1971. The all-time highest May temperature remains 35.0°C, recorded in 1954.

The soaring temperature comes amid a broader heat wave sweeping across Jammu and Kashmir, with residents in both the Valley and Jammu region struggling to cope with the unusually high temperatures. The weather anomaly has sparked health and safety concerns, particularly for vulnerable groups including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.

Authorities have issued a public advisory urging people to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated, wear light cotton clothing, and avoid strenuous physical activity in the heat.

Due to heat intensity, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir on Thursday ordered new timings for schools with education institutions to open at 8:30 am.

With summer only just beginning, residents are bracing for more challenging days ahead unless weather patterns.