Delay in arrival of monsoon in Kashmir

Srinagar, July 21 (ANI): Temperature hovering three degrees above normal has left residents and visitors high and dry in Kashmir.

The picturesque valley is hot, as delayed rainfall has led to a rise in the mercury levels.

More and more residents are taking dip in the Dal Lake besides having ice creams and drinks to beat the sweltering heat.

"The weather is very hot here. There is no sign of rain. The people are facing lot of problems. It becomes difficult to even sit in the classrooms, and we cannot go and play in the open. The humidity is very difficult to bear with," said Waseem Ahmed, a resident.

According to the Meteorological Department, the heat wave is expected to continue for some days.

"The monsoon is delayed by 10-12 days. In addition to this, there is low pressure system in northern India because of which rainfall is less. Due to less rainfall, the temperature is rising in Jammu as well as in Kashmir," said Sonam Lotus, Director, Meteorology Department.

According to Lotus, afternoon thunderstorms of short duration might bring some relief to the people in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)