Dry spell to continue till month end, predicts MeT
Jammu Tawi, Feb 21: Jammu is witnessing an unusual late-winter warm spell, with maximum temperatures rising well above normal levels. On Saturday, Jammu city recorded a high of 26.2°C against the seasonal norm of 22.3°C, while Kathua registered 26.0°C and Bhaderwah settled at 19.0°C compared to the normal of 14.2°C. Night temperatures have also remained above normal, with Jammu recording a minimum of 12.1°C against 11.1°C.
The Meteorological Department said that several areas in the Jammu division have seen maximum temperatures 4–9°C above normal over the past 24 hours. The department has forecast that dry weather is likely to prevail across Jammu till the end of February, with partly to generally cloudy conditions expected in the final week of the month. No major rain or snowfall is anticipated, providing favourable conditions for ongoing winter crop and farm operations.
Officials advised residents, particularly the elderly and children, to take necessary precautions during this unusual heat. Farmers were encouraged to continue field activities as the warm and dry conditions persist.
The MeT office said that temperatures are likely to rise further slightly over the next six days. Maximum day temperatures across other parts of the Jammu division have similarly remained above normal, reflecting an intensifying winter warm spell.
This unseasonal heat is part of a broader trend affecting both Jammu and Kashmir, with day temperatures in many parts of the Kashmir division also remaining 9–10°C above normal. While Srinagar recorded a maximum of 21.0°C, Qazigund settled at 21.0°C, Pahalgam at 16.5°C, and Kupwara at 19.8°C, showing a sharp departure from typical February readings.
With dry conditions expected to continue, authorities said no major weather warning has been issued, but residents and farmers should remain alert to sudden temperature fluctuations and plan accordingly.
