Cool Days, Rain Likely in J&K; Thunderstorm Warning Issued

Srinagar, April 19: Jammu & Kashmir witnessed below-normal daytime temperatures and scattered rainfall over the past 24 hours, even as the Meteorological Department forecast widespread rain and thunderstorms across the Union Territory in the next 24 hours.

According to the official weather report, maximum temperatures remained 2°C to 7°C below normal in the Kashmir division and up to 3°C below normal in parts of Jammu. The highest temperature in Kashmir was recorded at Kukernag (18.8°C), while Kathua in Jammu registered 35.8°C.

In contrast, night temperatures stayed above normal, rising by 1°C to 4°C across most areas, indicating relatively warmer nights. The lowest minimum temperature was recorded at Gulmarg (3.5°C).

The region also experienced light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, with Kishtwar receiving 14.5 mm of rain and Gulmarg 14.0 mm, the highest in the past 24 hours.

The Meteorological Department has forecast fairly widespread light rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall in higher reaches over Jammu & Kashmir during the next 24 hours. A weather advisory has been issued warning of isolated thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h in both Kashmir and Jammu divisions.

After the brief spell of active weather, conditions are expected to improve. The outlook suggests mostly dry weather for the following two days, with only isolated rainfall activity later in the week.

For Monday (April 20), major cities are likely to witness mainly clear skies, with temperatures expected to hover around Srinagar 23°C/7°C, Jammu 34°C/19°C, Muzaffarabad 30°C/16°C, and Mirpur 33°C/19°C.

The weekly trend indicates that rainfall activity will be concentrated at the beginning and end of the week, while the mid-week period will remain largely dry, providing temporary relief from unsettled weather conditions. Residents have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity and stay updated with official weather bulletins.