J&K Hit by Deadly Cloudbursts and Floods; IMD Warns of Further Severe Weather

Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing the effects of heavy rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing warnings for landslides and cloudbursts. The recent downpours have caused at least four fatalities in the Doda district and substantial damage to property across the Jammu region. Officials have reported that a house collapse accounted for two deaths, while the other two were caused by flash floods from overflowing streams. The district administration is actively engaged in rescue and relief operations. In response to the ongoing crisis, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held an emergency meeting and plans to visit Jammu to assess the situation and oversee the response, highlighting the critical need for vigilance and preparedness. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) has been closed due to landslides and flash floods, and schools in Jammu have been closed as a precaution. The Tawi Bridge is also closed to traffic. The IMD has issued orange and yellow alerts, warning of potential flash floods, landslides, and rising water levels in rivers. Further heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is anticipated in certain areas, with South Kashmir expected to face the most significant impact, especially in the higher reaches where intense rainfall could trigger flash floods. Authorities are strongly advising residents, especially those in vulnerable areas, to exercise extreme caution. Rescue teams are on the ground assisting families. The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has postponed the 10th and 11th-grade exams due to the weather.