Srinagar, May 23: The Jammu and Kashmir government declared summer vacation for schools in the Jammu division due to the ongoing severe heat. Education Minister Sakina Ittoo announced on social media platform X that summer breaks will commence from June 1 for primary classes and from June 8 for students in grades 6 to 12. She wished all students a safe and enjoyable holiday.
The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) issued a heat warning on Monday, predicting temperatures could soar to 45 degrees Celsius. Authorities urged residents, especially the elderly and children, to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary outings during the day.
This warning comes as the winter capital of Kashmir faces extreme heat, with officials cautioning that prolonged exposure could lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and heat-related illnesses. The JMC has deployed water sprinkling vehicles in various parts of the city to lower surface temperatures and provide temporary relief to commuters and pedestrians.
Residents are advised to drink plenty of water throughout the day and to limit outdoor activities during the hottest hours, unless absolutely necessary. The JMC also recommended wearing light cotton clothing, using umbrellas or head coverings when outside, and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Additionally, officials emphasized the importance of maintaining proper ventilation at home and staying hydrated with water and other fluids to prevent dehydration during the extreme heat. Special precautions have been advised for children, the elderly, and those with health issues. Families are encouraged to keep vulnerable individuals indoors during peak heat hours.
The JMC warned residents against leaving children or the elderly in parked vehicles, as cars can become dangerously hot within minutes in the current weather conditions. Field workers and sanitation staff working outdoors have also been instructed to take precautionary measures, including regular hydration.
According to the Srinagar Meteorological Centre, the maximum temperature recorded in Srinagar on Saturday was 23.9 degrees Celsius, which is 1.5 degrees below the seasonal average. In contrast, Jammu experienced a maximum temperature of 39.9 degrees Celsius, exceeding the normal by 1.5 degrees.
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