Jammu Kashmir on High Alert as Heavy Rain, Snowfall Expected Tomorrow

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has gone into high alert mode following a severe weather advisory, predicting widespread rain and snowfall across the Union Territory from October 5 to 7, 2025.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Srinagar, an active Western Disturbance is set to affect both divisions of Jammu and Kashmir, bringing moderate to heavy snowfall over higher reaches and heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the Jammu division.

The system is expected to be most intense from the evening of October 5 till the afternoon of October 7.

The affected areas in the Kashmir region include Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg–Zojila, Bandipora–Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, and Kupwara–Sadhna Pass, where heavy snowfall is likely. Light snowfall is also expected in mid-altitude areas, while the Kashmir plains may experience moderate to heavy rainfall. Parts of Jammu division could witness thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and winds gusting up to 60–70 kmph, the IMD said.

In response, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has directed all administrative departments to remain fully prepared to tackle any eventuality.

“Our priority is the safety of every citizen. All district and divisional administrations must stay alert, ensure readiness of control rooms, and respond swiftly to any distress calls,” the CM said in a review meeting.

Divisional Commissioners of both Jammu and Kashmir have activated all field officers, including those from district administrations, police, PWD, PDD, and health departments, to remain stationed at their respective headquarters and coordinate immediate response measures in case of emergencies.

“All departments have been put on standby, particularly those handling essential services and transport. Our teams are closely monitoring river levels, road conditions, and weather updates,” a senior official from the Divisional Commissioner’s office said.

Meanwhile the DMRRR in an advisory has cautioned that the weather system could lead to:Disruption of surface transport, including the Jammu–Srinagar and Srinagar–Leh National Highways.Landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas. Waterlogging in low-lying regions due to rising water levels in rivers and streams.Damage to crops and horticulture, prompting farmers to halt field operations between October 5 and 7. Power and communication outages in some snow-affected and high-altitude areas.

The department has urged citizens to remain vigilant, follow official advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel during the peak weather period.

The department has also issued safety guidelines:

Do’s: Stay indoors during heavy rain, snowfall, or thunderstorms; Keep emergency supplies such as food, water, medicines, torches, and batteries ready; Drive cautiously and avoid unnecessary travel; Secure rooftops, farm equipment, and loose objects; Ensure the safety of elderly, children, and specially-abled members; Move to safer locations if advised by authorities.

Don’ts: Do not venture into flooded rivers, streams, or nallas; Avoid touching fallen electric wires or exposed electrical equipment; Refrain from traveling on landslide-prone or snow-covered roads; Do not engage in outdoor activities during hail storms or strong winds; Avoid staying in avalanche-prone or snow-laden structures; Do not block natural drainage channels.

Emergency Contact Details: Helpline: 112, Landline: 0194-2502254, 0194-2950767. Mobile: 7006067453, 9086131746

The Union Territory Emergency Operation Centre (UTEOC) at Hari Niwas, Gupkar Road, Srinagar, has been fully activated, with disaster management teams, police, and local administration on standby for rescue and relief operations.

Authorities have appealed to citizens to follow only official updates issued by the IMD and DMRRR and avoid spreading unverified information on social media.

“The situation is being closely monitored. We urge people to remain calm, stay informed, and cooperate with the administration to ensure everyone’s safety,” a senior DMRRR official said. (KINS)