Jammu and Kashmir Braces for More Unsettled Weather as Cloudbursts and Flooding Hit Region

SRINAGAR: After weeks of scorching heat, intermittent rainfall since Monday morning has brought a welcome dip in temperatures across the Kashmir Valley, but the change in weather has also ushered in a series of disruptive and potentially dangerous events, including sudden cloudbursts, landslides, and widespread waterlogging across various districts. Authorities are now bracing for another 48 hours of potentially severe weather, with advisories issued for residents and pilgrims.

One such incident occurred in the Koff Nalla area of Sazar, Padder subdivision, Kishtwar district, where a cloudburst triggered heavy water flow. While initial reports thankfully indicate no casualties or significant damage in Kishtwar, rescue teams have been promptly deployed to the site, and disaster management units remain on standby as a precautionary measure. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged residents of nearby villages to remain alert.

However, other parts of the region have not been as fortunate. In Anantnag district, a sudden cloudburst in the Mantipora Chattergul area caused flash floods, inundating several residential houses with a surge of muddy water. Locals reported considerable damage to homes, though fortunately, no casualties or injuries have been reported. The persistent heavy rainfall over two days led to nearby streams swelling rapidly, sending debris and sludge cascading into residential areas.

The flood-like situation has also severely disrupted daily life in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district. Villages such as Raiyar Khansahib and Kangripora are experiencing severe waterlogging, damage to kucha houses, and the inundation of shops and roads. Residents in these areas have expressed profound frustration, alleging a complete lack of administrative response. Many claim that no officials from the district administration or local representatives have visited the affected areas to assess the damage or offer assistance. “We are suffering badly, water has entered our homes and shops, and no official has come to see our plight,” a local from Raiyar, Budgam, lamented.

The situation is particularly dire in low-lying areas of Budgam, where inadequate drainage systems have exacerbated water stagnation, raising fears of further property damage. Even the downtown area of Srinagar has been affected, witnessing heavy rainfall, leading to significant waterlogging and the inundation of shops and roads.

Meteorology department officials in Srinagar have predicted a fresh spell of cooler and unsettled weather across Jammu and Kashmir over the next 48 hours. This is attributed to an incoming Western Disturbance coupled with active monsoon winds, which is likely to bring moderate to heavy rainfall. This forecast raises concerns about additional flash floods and cloudbursts in isolated areas.

In light of the evolving weather patterns, authorities have issued advisories urging people, especially those in flood-prone zones, to remain cautious. Amarnath pilgrims and trekkers have been specifically advised to stay updated with weather bulletins and to avoid unnecessary travel during peak rainfall hours, as the Valley prepares for potentially more severe weather conditions in the coming days.