Is Srinagar Experiencing Its Hottest Day of the Season at 34.4°C?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 34.4 degrees Celsius.
- Schools have adjusted timings to protect students from heat.
- Authorities suspended outdoor morning assemblies.
- Children are advised to stay hydrated and avoid direct sunlight.
- Rural areas maintain better tree cover compared to urban Srinagar.
Srinagar, May 22 (NationPress) On Thursday, Srinagar city in Kashmir recorded a maximum temperature of 34.4 degrees Celsius, marking the hottest day of the season to date.
According to a MET department official, this surpasses the previous high of 34.2 degrees Celsius recorded on May 5, 2024, with expectations of continued warm weather over the next five days.
Meanwhile, Jammu city experienced even higher temperatures, reaching 38.5 degrees Celsius.
In response to the extreme heat, local authorities have mandated that schools in Srinagar will operate from 8 am to 2 pm, while schools outside the city will run from 9 am to 3 pm starting Monday.
The Education Minister, Sakina Itoo, stated that the announcement regarding summer vacations in the Valley schools will be made at the appropriate time.
There have been reports of children fainting during morning assemblies held outdoors.
In light of this, authorities have prohibited any morning assemblies in outdoor settings until further notice.
Unfortunately, no government schools in the Valley have provisions to alleviate the impact of the heat, with classrooms lacking even ceiling fans, let alone air conditioning.
Residents, particularly children and the elderly, have been advised to avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours.
Many children in Srinagar and surrounding towns have been observed bathing in local water bodies to escape the summer heat.
In contrast to Srinagar, where urban development has significantly reduced tree cover, rural areas in the Valley still maintain a healthy tree canopy that offers vital shade for pedestrians and the elderly.