“Uncommon in the Region,” Says Sonam Lotus on Jammu Tornado | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: A rare tornado-like weather phenomenon was reported on Saturday evening in the Akhnoor area of Jammu and Kashmir, leaving residents startled and anxious.

Locals shared videos of a swirling column of wind on social media, which quickly went viral, with users expressing concern, seeking explanations, and offering prayers.

Meteorological expert Sonam Lotus, while speaking to Kashmir Life, said that tornado-like phenomena are extremely rare in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh though Jammu’s comparatively warmer conditions can occasionally create a suitable environment for it.

“Jammu is warmer than Kashmir, and although such events are rare, they can occur under high temperatures and strong atmospheric instability, with intense winds leading to short-lived tornado-like formations,” he said.

He explained that such disturbances are brief, typically lasting 10 to 15 minutes, and are rarely observed in the region. “They can cause damage,” he added.

Lotus noted that such phenomena are very unlikely to happen in Kashmir and Ladakh due to their topography and lower temperatures, which do not support the required conditions. “Tornado formation requires a combination of moisture and strong temperature gradients to sustain,” he said.

Meanwhile, authorities have not reported any major damage so far, and a detailed assessment of the weather event is awaited.