Srinagar, July 1 -- Known for its cool climate and snow-capped mountains, Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing an alarming rise in temperatures. While the Jammu plains have traditionally experienced hot summers, the Kashmir Valley is now recording unusually high temperatures that were once considered rare. In June 2026, the region experienced severe heat stress. Jammu city recorded 44.7degC, nearly 6degC above normal, while Samba touched 46.8degC and Kathua reached 43.8degC, prompting the Meteorological Department to issue a heatwave alert. Hospitals also reported an increase in heatstroke and dehydration cases.The Kashmir Valley was not spared. Srinagar recorded 33.8degC, about 4degC above normal, while Qazigund (34.6degC) and Kokernag (32.9d...