Kashmiri capital sizzling with highest temps since 1978
Soaring temperatures raise concerns with water bodies drying up
Watermelon is a common fruit during summers to retain body moisture. A fruit seller in Indian-administered Kashmir. (AA Photo by Faisal Khan)
SRINAGAR, Jammu and Kashmir
The capital city of Srinagar in the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir region recorded its highest temperature for the month of June since 1978.
Data compiled by weather forecaster Faizan Arif said the average maximum temperature last month stood at 31.0ºC (87.8ºF) in Srinagar – the hottest since 1978 and second warmest since official observation began in 1892.
“The average maximum temperature for June 2025 stood at 31.0°C, while the mean minimum settled at 18.2°C, resulting in an overall average temperature of 24.6°C,” he said.
He added that the only hotter June on record for the city was in 1978, when the overall average temperature reached 25.0°C, driven by a higher mean maximum of 32.9°C, though the mean minimum that year was lower at 17.1°C.
2008 holds the record for the highest mean minimum temperature in June at 18.3°C, slightly above this year’s figure, he added.
Notably, an overall average temperature of 24.6°C, the same as this year, was also recorded in 1971 and 1973, placing 2025 on par with some of the hottest Junes on history.
The soaring temperatures in other places in the region have prompted concerns for residents and authorities, as they cope with the effects of the heat wave.
Most of the springs and water bodies are drying up because of the severe heat.
Health officials have issued advisories urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take precautions to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.
Meteorologists have warned of persistent dry conditions and above-normal temperatures in the coming days. The absence of rain and low humidity has compounded the discomfort for residents and tourists.
The head of the Meteorological Department, Mukhtar Ahmad, told Anadolu that until July 4, temperatures will remain high, but there are chances of precipitation from July 5, which can bring respite.
“We are monitoring and hopefully it will rain in coming days,” he said.
