Jammu Kashmir Records Normal Rainfall Despite Cloudbursts, Flash Floods

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has recorded normal precipitation over the last 81 days, despite incidents of cloudbursts, flash floods, and heavy downpours across the region. Official data shows that against the normal rainfall of 398.9 mm, the Union Territory has received 397.8 mm between June 1 and August 20, a deficit of just 5 per cent.

According to data, Srinagar, along with Baramulla, Doda, Ganderbal, Jammu, Kathua, Poonch, and Ramban, received normal rainfall during the period.

Six districts—Anantnag, Budgam, Bandipora, Kulgam, Kupwara, and Pulwama—recorded a deficit ranging between 20 and 59 per cent. Kishtwar, which recently witnessed devastating flash floods triggered by a cloudburst, reported a large deficit of rainfall. Against a normal of 309.1 mm, the district received only 91.8 mm. Shopian also recorded a 70 per cent deficit.

On the other hand, Reasi, Samba, and Udhampur recorded excess rainfall ranging from 20 to 59 per cent.

Director MeT, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, said generally hot and humid weather is expected, with brief spells of rain and thunderstorms at isolated places over the next two days. He warned of heavy rainfall in parts of Jammu division, particularly Reasi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Kathua, and Samba, during late night on the 22nd.

From August 23-26, light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms are expected at many places, with heavy showers likely in Jammu, Reasi, Udhampur, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, Anantnag, and Kulgam. Poonch, Ramban, Doda, and Kishtwar may also experience moderate to intense rainfall.

Between August 27-30, the forecast suggests hot and humid conditions with brief spells of rain and thunder.

The MeT advisory has cautioned of possible cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones during August 23-26. People have been advised to stay away from rivers, streams, nallas, embankments, loose structures, and kaccha houses.

“All concerned are advised to follow accordingly,” the advisory reads. (KNO)