Kashmir Valley Swelters: Srinagar Breaks Heat Records, Schools Adapt

Srinagar is enduring an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels. The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir recorded 35.5 degrees Celsius on Friday, the second day of record-breaking heat. This surpasses the previous day’s high of 35.2 degrees, setting a new seasonal high. This marks the hottest June since 2005 and the warmest period since 1988. The extended period of high temperatures has led to proactive measures from the government. The Education Minister has announced adjustments to school timings across Srinagar and the wider Kashmir Valley. Schools within Srinagar will operate from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, effective June 21, while schools outside the municipal limits will follow a schedule of 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Furthermore, a ten-day summer break, starting July 1 and ending July 10, has been declared for all schools in the Kashmir division, due to the extreme heat. The weather will be evaluated after July 10, and the vacation may be extended. Local weather forecasts predict the possibility of rain and thunderstorms, potentially offering some respite from the heat.