Nishikant Khajuria
JAMMU, June 4: As Jammu recorded this season’s maximum temperature on Wednesday, the prevailing heat wave further intensified forcing people to stay indoor while the State Government today formally declared summer vacation in all schools of the summer zone from June 6.
Today’s maximum temperature was registered at 42.3 degree Celsius, which was more than two degree Celsius above the normal temperature during these days, said an official of the Metrology Department.
The maximum temperature on Wednesday recorded an increase of 1.6 degree Celsius over yesterday’ temperature while the minimum temperature, which was 24 degree Celsius also increased two degree Celsius in 24 hours, the official explained.
The normal temperature during these days should be 39.2 degree Celsius maximum and 24 degree minimum.
As the mercury kept soaring, there was no respite from the heat wave, which has been intensifying for the last few days. During the afternoon hours, the city roads wore a deserted look as people preferred to stay indoor due to the heat wave. Pedestrian, mostly women and girls, were seen covering face and carrying umbrellas to protect themselves from the direct sunlight. Prolong and frequent power cuts in Jammu multiplied woos of people in the scorching heat.
Heavy rush was witnessed at Ranbir Canal where people, particularly youth and children had reached for seeking a respite from the sweltering heat. By the evening, the rush was continuously increasing. Roadside vendors selling sugarcane juice, ice candies and lemon water witnessed had brisk business and rush due to the prevailing heat wave.
According to Dr B C Sharma, Head of the Agrometrolgy Division in SKUAST Jammu, the heat wave will continue to prevail in next few days as the chances of local rains in plains are remote till June 10.
Earlier on May 29, the maximum temperature was 41.8 degree Celsius and on May 1 it was 40.3 degree Celsius, which reached to 42.3 degree Celsius today and may further increase in next two three days.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of School Education, Jammu issued formal order for summer vacation in all schools, Government as well as private, falling in Summer zones of Jammu division with effect from June 6 to July 31.
As per the order, any default on the part of private schools in observance of the calendar of vacations shall attract action under rules.
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