Srinagar, Jul 18 : Srinagar recorded the hottest day of the season on Saturday as the mercury climbed to 35.9 degrees Celsius, while the Meteorological Department forecast widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir over the next five days, warning of heavy downpours and weather-related hazards in several districts.
According to the MeT Department, the weather is expected to change from July 19, with generally cloudy skies accompanied by intermittent rain and thundershowers across the Union Territory till July 23.
Officials said some places could witness heavy to very heavy rainfall, with brief intense showers and isolated torrential downpours, particularly during late afternoon, evening and night hours.
The department has issued a heavy rainfall warning for several districts of the Jammu region, including Reasi and Udhampur, where isolated places may receive extremely heavy rain. Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Rajouri, Doda, Ramban and Kishtwar are also likely to experience heavy spells during the period.
The MeT cautioned that intense rainfall could trigger flash floods, landslides, mudslides, a sharp rise in river and stream water levels, and waterlogging in vulnerable and low-lying areas.
Weather conditions are expected to improve from July 24, although isolated places may continue to receive brief showers.
Authorities have advised people to avoid travel to vulnerable areas during heavy rain and urged farmers to suspend agricultural operations until the adverse weather subsides.(KNS)
