Jammu Kashmir is expected to experience light to moderate rainfall till August 19, the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has predicted.
Areas of the Jammu division, including Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban, may witness heavy showers, while Kashmir Valley regions may experience moderate, intense spells and occasional gusty winds.
The ongoing heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir has caused widespread disruption, with the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) closed due to multiple landslides, flash floods, and shooting stones.
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), the only all-weather road connecting Kashmir to the rest of India, is closed due to heavy rainfall triggering landslides and shooting stones at multiple locations, including Sherbibi, Mehad, Marog, Magarkote, Monkey Mode, in the Ramban-Banihal sector.
The continuous rain is hampering debris clearance, and authorities estimate it may take many hours to restore the highway. Commuters are advised to avoid travel until the weather improves and the road is cleared.
Also Read: ‘Delhi Paralysed In Two Hours Of Rain’: SC Slams Poor Roads, Toll Charges
Jammu And Kashmir Weather Forecast
On August 18, cloud cover spread over the skies. A heavy thunderstorm in the morning could bring scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Daytime temperatures will reach around 24°C, dropping to 16°C at night.
On August 19, skies will remain mostly cloudy. Morning showers are likely to continue into the afternoon in certain areas. Expected temperatures will hover between 15°C and 25°C.
The IMD forecasted heavy to moderate rainfall across the Union Territory until August 19 morning, expected in isolated areas of the Jammu division, followed by another spell of light to moderate rain from August 23-25.
The weather office has also cautioned residents about the risk of localised flash floods, cloudbursts, and landslides, especially in vulnerable spots. Travellers and locals are advised to stay alert and avoid flood-prone areas such as riverbanks, streams, and unstable terrain during this period.
Schools Shut
All government and private schools in the Jammu division are closed on August 18 due to inclement weather. IMD has predicted the same kind of weather conditions for the next 36 hours in Jammu and Kashmir.
Tourists In J&K
Meanwhile, authorities have suggested that residents and tourists should plan activities with caution, especially in flood-prone or hilly regions, and avoid water bodies and areas prone to landslides or sudden storms.
Residents are advised to stay updated by keeping an eye on local weather alerts and advisories if they come in areas like Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, or the Kashmir Valley.