Jammu and Kashmir faces another spell of unsettled weather as the Meteorological Centre Srinagar forecasts widespread rain and thundershowers over the coming days. Heavy to intense showers could increase the threat of flash floods, landslides and mudslides, particularly in vulnerable and hilly areas.
Heavy rain likely from August 16 to 19
The Meteorological Centre Srinagar said several spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at many places across Jammu and Kashmir between August 16 and 19. A few districts could experience heavy rain and brief intense showers, especially during the early morning and afternoon hours.
The Jammu division could see some of the stronger spells, with heavy rain and short periods of intense rainfall possible in a few districts. One or two districts of the Kashmir division may also receive brief intense showers. Residents should remain prepared for sudden changes in local weather because rainfall intensity can vary considerably over short distances.
Flash floods and landslides remain a concern
The weather department warned that torrential rain and brief intense showers could trigger flash floods in vulnerable locations. Landslides and mudslides are also possible in hilly and landslide-prone areas, particularly where the ground has already received significant rainfall.
People living near streams, steep slopes and other vulnerable locations should closely follow official advisories. Travellers and transporters should also check current weather and road conditions before travelling through mountainous areas during periods of intense rain.
Jammu and Kashmir rain forecast through August 22
From August 13 to 15, the department expects light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places. A few locations could receive brief intense showers during the early morning or morning hours and again during the late afternoon and evening.
Rainfall activity could become more significant from August 16 to 19 before easing later in the forecast period. Between August 20 and 22, light rain and thundershowers are possible at scattered places, according to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar.
Pulwama records 57.5 mm of rainfall
Several areas have already recorded substantial rainfall. Pulwama received 57.5 mm during the reported 24-hour period, while Poonch recorded 53 mm. Awantipora received 47.8 mm and Rajouri recorded 44 mm.
The recent rainfall, combined with further showers in the forecast, makes conditions in vulnerable terrain particularly important to monitor. Sudden heavy rain can rapidly raise water levels in streams and create dangerous conditions along slopes and low-lying routes.
Residents and visitors should continue following updates from the Meteorological Centre Srinagar and instructions from local authorities. People planning journeys through rain-affected or mountainous areas should check the latest forecast and road conditions before travelling, especially during periods when intense showers are expected.
