Hot, dry weather cast shadow over monsoon season in J&K

Srinagar among 5 stations see large deficit rainfall; summer capital records hottest-ever June night at 25.0°C; rain lashe multiple places in Kashmir
Srinagar : The ongoing hot and dry conditions in Jammu and Kashmir have led to significant rainfall deficits across the region during the current monsoon season. Forecasts indicate that heavy rains and thunderstorms expected in the next 48 hours may alleviate this precipitation shortfall, particularly in Srinagar and surrounding areas. Srinagar recorded its hottest night in June at 25.0°C, contributing to elevated daytime and nighttime temperatures throughout the region. Rainfall deficits in Srinagar and nearby areas, including Budgam, Bandipora, Kishtwar, and Kulgam, range from 60% to 99%. Other stations, such as Anantnag, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Kupwara, and Shopian, have deficits between 20% and 59%. Notably, Pulwama is the only station with near-normal precipitation, receiving 26.9 mm compared to a normal of 30.8 mm. Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif Keng predicts a respite from the heatwave starting Thursday, lasting for three to four days. The anticipated monsoon showers are expected to lower maximum temperatures and improve heatwave conditions, particularly in Jammu, where heavy rainfall is forecasted. On Wednesday, temperatures across various locations were recorded as follows: Srinagar at 32.5°C, Qazigund at 30.2°C, Pahalgam at 27.4°C, Kokernag at 30.8°C, Kupwara at 32.8°C, and Gulmarg at 23.2°C. Jammu city reached 32.6°C, while Banihal recorded 27.7°C. Batote, Bhaderwah, and Katra experienced maximum temperatures of 26.2°C, 30.6°C, and 29.0°C, respectively. Some areas in Kashmir, including parts of Srinagar, received monsoon showers in the morning, with further rainfall expected in the coming days.