Srinagar, Qazigund, and Kokernag Shatter May Temperature Records, Srinagar especially after 133 yrs; Jammu Sizzles at 41.0°C
Srinagar, May 23, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir are grappling with an unprecedented heatwave as multiple locations across the region recorded historic high temperatures on May 22, 2025, according to the local Meteorological Department. The scorching conditions have broken long-standing records, with Srinagar, Qazigund, and Kokernag registering some of the highest May temperatures in decades, while Jammu city endured blistering heat at 41.0°C.
Srinagar, the summer capital, hit a sweltering 34.4°C, marking the third-highest maximum temperature for May in 133 years. This temperature, 9°C above normal, surpassed the previous third-highest record of 34.3°C set on May 28, 1971, though it fell short of the all-time high of 36.4°C recorded on May 24, 1968. The intense heat prompted authorities to issue a health advisory as the region battles the ongoing heatwave.
Qazigund also made headlines, recording 33.5°C, the third-highest May temperature since 1956. While this is a significant milestone, it remains just below the all-time record of 34.0°C set in May 2024, highlighting the increasing frequency of extreme heat events in the region.
Kokernag stole the spotlight by registering an all-time high of 33.3°C, breaking the previous May record of 32.6°C set on May 15, 2001. This new benchmark, the highest since records began in 1978, underscores the severity of the current heatwave gripping Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, Jammu city faced its own extreme conditions, with the mercury soaring to 41.0°C on May 22, 2025, as reported by local weather sources. This intense heat, coupled with high humidity, has made daily life challenging for residents, with temperatures significantly above the seasonal average.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the heatwave is likely to persist, with above-normal temperatures expected across Northwest India. The region, including Jammu and Kashmir, is projected to experience 10-12 heatwave days this season, nearly double the usual number, according to the IMD’s Seasonal Heat Outlook for March to May 2025.
As the heatwave tightens its grip, authorities are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take precautions to mitigate health risks. The unprecedented temperatures across Srinagar, Qazigund, Kokernag, and Jammu highlight the growing impact of climate change, raising concerns about the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events.
