Jammu, April 11: In an unusual and rare weather event, a tornado-like phenomenon was reported in Jammu’s Akhnoor area on Saturday evening, leaving residents startled and briefly gripped by panic.

Director of the Jammu and Kashmir Meteorological Department, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, confirmed that the event lasted for around 10 minutes in an open field and did not result in any reported damage.
Residents witnessed a sudden whirling column of wind lifting dust and light debris into the air, prompting many to rush indoors or move to safer locations. Videos circulated on social media showed the rotating wind column, with locals expressing shock and concern over the unexpected occurrence.
Officials said the weather conditions changed rapidly during the day, with clear skies giving way to dark clouds around 4:45 pm, followed by light to moderate rain and thundershowers in parts of the region.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad described the event as an extremely rare occurrence for Jammu. He noted that a squall line developed due to thunderstorm activity, which briefly intensified into a tornado-like system.
However, meteorological analysis suggested that there was no strong evidence of a fully developed tornado structure. Radar observations indicated the absence of a tight rotational signature, while wind patterns appeared broad and disorganized. Experts also pointed out that vertical wind shear conditions were weak and inconsistent, making sustained tornado formation unlikely.
Officials added that similar isolated phenomena had been observed in parts of Punjab in recent years, though such events remain uncommon in the Jammu region.
While the event caused temporary panic among locals, authorities reassured that there was no loss of life or property damage.