Rain, thunderstorms likely across J&K till June 22: MeT

Srinagar: The Meteorological Department on Wednesday issued a weather alert for Jammu and Kashmir, forecasting rain, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and gusty winds across the Union Territory till June 22, and warned possible flash floods and mudslides in vulnerable areas.
According to MeT Department, weather conditions on Wednesday remained partly to generally cloudy, with light rain, brief intense showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds reported or expected at many places across the Union Territory.
The department said the wet spell is likely to persist from June 18 to June 22, during which most parts of Jammu and Kashmir may witness one or two spells of light rain accompanied by brief but intense showers, thunderstorms, hailstorms and strong winds.
In an advisory issued to farmers and the general public, the MeT urged orchard owners to carry out spraying operations during early morning hours to minimise weather-related disruption.
Authorities also advised residents to avoid venturing near loose structures, electric poles, overhead power lines and old trees during periods of thunderstorms and gusty winds, citing safety concerns. Boating activities have also been advised against during adverse weather conditions.
The weather office warned that intense short-duration showers could trigger flash floods and mudslides in vulnerable areas, particularly in hilly and landslide-prone zones.
Among key weather readings, Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 29.4°C, while Gulmarg remained the coldest in the Valley at 19.8°C. In the Jammu region, Jammu recorded 32.6°C, while Kathua emerged as the hottest at 36.2°C.
Officials said people in vulnerable areas should remain alert as weather conditions may change rapidly over the next few days.