Udhampur (Jammu and Kashmir) [India]: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe weather warning for Jammu and Kashmir, forecasting heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and gusty winds between April 18 and 20, attributed to the influence of an active western disturbance. Authorities have taken immediate steps to ensure public safety and livestock protection amid these challenging conditions.
In response to the weather advisory, the Department of Sheep Husbandry in Udhampur district has proactively engaged with nomadic communities currently on their annual seasonal migration. Many of these nomads are located near the Narsu area and have been advised to delay their ascent into the hilly regions until the adverse weather conditions subside.
“We are working closely with the nomadic groups to ensure they are aware of the potential risks posed by this weather system. Our primary concern is their safety and that of their livestock,” said a department official.
The Sheep Husbandry Department has also deployed teams to carry out health check-ups on migrating livestock, including sheep and goats, ensuring they are in good health and ready to withstand environmental stress. Additionally, seven first-aid camps have been established across the district to provide veterinary care and assistance to the nomads and their animals as part of a broader preparedness strategy.
Authorities are closely monitoring the weather developments and have urged nomadic communities to prioritize safety and cooperate with the advisories until the severe weather threat passes.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan’s Churu is experiencing an extreme heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 40 degrees Celsius. On April 17, the recorded temperature reached a blistering 44.2°C, with temperatures expected to rise further on April 18. Churu, renowned for its extreme climate, can see summer temperatures exceed 50°C and winter temperatures dip below zero.
“The heat is becoming unbearable. Many people are staying indoors during the peak afternoon hours, and the roads are becoming so hot they feel like a blacksmith’s forge. Even wildlife is visibly affected,” shared a local resident.
In addition to Churu, other parts of Rajasthan are also grappling with soaring temperatures. Barmer recorded 45.0°C, Bikaner reached 45.1°C, and Jaisalmer hit 44.8°C, making these regions among the hottest in the state.
As temperatures continue to climb, many residents are relying on cold beverages and cooling methods to cope with the intense heat, while mirages begin to form along the roads.
Looking ahead, the IMD has issued a long-range forecast for the 2025 southwest monsoon season, predicting above-normal rainfall for most parts of India. The forecast, based on the Multi-Model Ensemble (MME) approach, estimates a 59 percent probability that the monsoon will bring rainfall exceeding 104 percent of the Long Period Average (LPA). While most of India is expected to experience above-normal rainfall, some regions, including parts of Northwest India, Northeast India, and the southern peninsular region, may receive below-normal rainfall.