Kashmir Valley too witnessing abnormal climate change

The ongoing spring has suddenly turned hotter. On Sunday the maximum day temperature was 25 degrees Celsius, while on Saturday 26.2 degrees Celsius, Friday 26.4 degrees Celsius (highest in the month), and on Thursday 25.2 degrees Celsius.
The Metrological Department (Met) officials said the temperature at present is 10-11 degrees above normal in March.

The unusual rise in temperature started from March 1 and since then it is increasing. “The rise in temperature is due to lack of rain. In March we usually receive 107.3 mm rain in Kashmir. But so far we have recorded 43.9 mm,” said Sonam Lotus, director Met.
Asked whether the unusual rise in temperature has anything to do with the global warming, Sonam said: “We should not jump to conclusions. Right now it is because of the shortage of rains.”

The rising temperature is also affecting the famous Tulip Garden. Usually the flowers in Tulip Garden remain fresh for 25 days but due to hot weather their life is likely to get decreased by six days.
The Tulip Garden is the centre of attraction not only for the local people but also for the tourists . The tourists are also surprised over the unusual hot weather. “I was here with my family in March last year. At that time the weather was not so hot,” said Sanjay Malhotra, a visitor from Delhi.

He said if the temperature continues to rise, the tourists may not enjoy their time in the valley. “Kashmir is liked for cold and not for hot weather,” Sanjay said.