Gusty winds sweep Kashmir, wreak havoc, damage property

Srinagar, Apr 16: Strong gusty winds swept across Kashmir on Thursday, causing widespread damage to property and disrupting normal life.

Winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph began around 3:30 p.m. in north Kashmir and gradually spread to central and south Kashmir, uprooting trees, blowing away rooftops and damaging shops, makeshift stalls and other infrastructure.

The impact of the windstorm was particularly severe in Srinagar and Pulwama districts.

“The gusty winds rattled Srinagar city and caused severe disruptions to daily life,” an official said, adding that traffic movement was affected in several areas.

In Srinagar’s outskirts, including Nagbal, Dara and Harwan, rooftops of at least half a dozen houses were blown away.

Shopfronts, signboards and temporary vendor setups were also damaged in LalChowk and other market areas, with street vendors suffering losses as goods were scattered.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) launched rescue operations in Dal Lake after strong winds disrupted boating.

“Following the sudden storm, SDRF teams acted swiftly in Dal Lake. Tourists and locals onboard shikaras were safely rescued and brought ashore, preventing any major mishap,” an official said.

In south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, similar damage was reported, with rooftops of several houses blown off.

In Pampore, the winds caused damage to several parked vehicles and motorcycles after tin sheets and debris were blown onto roads and parking areas.

Tree branches also fell, disrupting movement in some localities.

The windstorm triggered power outages in several areas, including parts of Pampore, after electricity lines were affected. Power Development Department teams were pressed into service to restore supply.

In some places, the winds were accompanied by rain and isolated hailstorms.

The Meteorological Department had issued a nowcast warning earlier, predicting gusty winds, rain and thundershowers across parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

 Authorities advised people to stay away from electric poles, old trees and loose structures, and suspended boating activities until conditions stabilize.

The MET has forecast a wet spell across Kashmir from April 17 to April 19, with generally cloudy skies and light rain or thundershowers expected at many places.

On April 17 and 18, light rain or thundershowers are likely during the morning or forenoon hours. On April 19, scattered areas may receive brief spells of light rain or thundershowers, mainly in the afternoon.

The department has also warned of gusty winds and possible hailstorms at a few places over the next three days. Dry weather is expected to prevail from April 20 onward, officials said.