Srinagar, July 5 -- The extreme heat wasn't limited to the capital. Pahalgam, which serves as a key base camp for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, witnessed its hottest July day ever with the mercury touching 31.6degC, surpassing its previous record of 31.5degC set on July 21 last year. Kokernag also sizzled at 34.0degC, the second-highest temperature ever recorded there, falling just short of the 34.1degC record set on July 28, 2024.

The unusually high temperatures have triggered growing concern among residents, with many parents and students urging the authorities to extend the ongoing summer vacation. With classrooms already shut due to the heat, calls are mounting for a longer break until weather conditions improve.

The Meteorological De...