MeT forecasts rains, storms across J&K

Srinagar, Jun 12: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, while warning of flash floods and mudslides in vulnerable areas.
Even as temperatures remained above normal across the Jammu and Kashmir, the weather department advised caution amid the likelihood of lightning, hailstorms, strong winds and brief intense showers through next week.
The Valley and Jammu region have witnessed intermittent rainfall in recent days, with the MeT Department urging people to avoid risky outdoor activities and stay away from vulnerable structures during adverse weather conditions.
On Friday, the Meteorological Centre Srinagar forecast light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across Jammu and Kashmir over the next several days, while warning of possible flash floods and mudslides in isolated areas.
According to the weather department, Jammu recorded the highest maximum temperature in J&K at 41.8 degrees Celsius, which was 3 degrees Celsius above normal, while Srinagar recorded a maximum temperature of 31.5 degrees Celsius, 3.5 degrees Celsius above normal.
The department said weather conditions on June 12 would remain partly to generally cloudy with one or two spells of light to moderate rain and brief intense showers at many places.
Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, are also likely at a few places.
For the period from June 13 to June 17, the weather is expected to remain partly to generally cloudy with light rain, brief intense showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds at scattered places.
Similar conditions are likely to continue on June 18 and 19.
The MeT Centre advised people to remain cautious as there is a possibility of thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms and strong winds during the day.
It also warned that brief intense showers at isolated locations in both Kashmir and Jammu divisions could trigger flash floods and mudslides.
People have been advised to stay away from loose structures, electric poles, overhead wires and old trees.
The department also recommended suspension of boating and Shikara operations during periods of adverse weather.
Among other stations in Kashmir, Qazigund recorded 30.2 degrees Celsius, Kupwara 30.2 degrees Celsius, Kokernag 29 degrees Celsius, Pahalgam 25.9 degrees Celsius and Gulmarg 21.6 degrees Celsius.
In Jammu division, Kathua recorded 41.6 degrees Celsius, Katra 38.3 degrees Celsius, Batote 31.3 degrees Celsius, Banihal 29.2 degrees Celsius and Bhaderwah 27.2 degrees Celsius.
Rainfall during the previous 24 hours was reported from several places, including Batote (27.6 mm), Bhaderwah (28.2 mm), Doda (18 mm), Jammu (12 mm), Kishtwar (8 mm), and Sonamarg (7 mm), according to the department.
The minimum temperature settled at 13.6 degrees Celsius in Srinagar and 24.1 degrees Celsius in Jammu, both below their respective seasonal normals. (KNO)