Tale of two climates:Jammu sizzles at 39.5°C, Srinagar mild at 21.2°C

Abid Bashir
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26 Apr 2026

No major weather system affecting J&K: MeT

Srinagar, Apr 25: Jammu and Kashmir continues to present a tale of two contrasting climates, where scorching heat grips the plains even as the Valley holds on to its gentle spring. On Saturday, Jammu recorded a sweltering 39.5°C, signalling an early onset of summer, while Srinagar remained relatively mild at 21.2°C, offering a stark reminder of the region’s unique geographical divide.

The nearly 18-degree temperature gap between the two regions is not unusual for this time of year, but its intensity has once again brought focus to the contrasting weather systems within the Union Territory. While residents in Jammu are already seeking refuge from the heat, people in Kashmir are still enjoying pleasant days and cool evenings.

According to Director of the Meteorological Department, Srinagar, Mukhtar Ahmad, the weather is expected to remain largely dry in the coming days, with intermittent cloud cover and brief spells of light rain or thundershowers at scattered places.

“There is no major weather system affecting Jammu and Kashmir at present. However, isolated rain and gusty winds are expected, particularly towards afternoon or evening hours on select days,” he said.

The advisory issued by the MeT Centre has also warned of hot and dry conditions prevailing across Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Reasi and Udhampur districts, with the possibility of heatwave conditions at isolated places. Residents have been advised to avoid prolonged exposure to heat during peak hours and stay hydrated.

Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif said the current pattern reflects a typical seasonal transition, though temperatures in Jammu are rising sharply. “This contrast is driven by topography. Jammu, being part of the plains, heats up rapidly, while Kashmir’s elevation helps it retain cooler temperatures for longer,” he explained.

The MeT advisory also suggested that farmers can resume agricultural activities during brief dry windows, even as intermittent weather disturbances may bring short spells of rain in the coming days.

Despite occasional spikes, Kashmir continues to experience the lingering charm of spring—cool mornings, blooming orchards, and crisp evenings. Jammu, however, is steadily marching into peak summer, with rising mercury levels and intensifying heat.

As the region moves deeper into the season, this climatic contrast is expected to persist—one part bracing for heatwaves, the other slowly transitioning from spring towards summer.