Several parts of Kashmir were battered by heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds on Monday, causing widespread disruption to daily life and sparking concerns over landslides and flooding in vulnerable areas.
The downpour, which began late Sunday night, intensified by early Monday morning, leading to waterlogging in several low-lying areas of Srinagar and neighboring districts. Commuters struggled to navigate flooded roads as traffic moved at a snail’s pace, and public transport services were briefly suspended on some routes due to safety concerns.
The Meteorological Department reported wind speeds exceeding 60 km/h in some areas, leading to the uprooting of trees and damage to rooftops and power lines. Power outages were reported from several localities, including Baramulla, Pulwama, and parts of Anantnag.
Authorities have issued advisories urging residents, especially those living in hilly areas, to remain alert for possible landslides. In the higher reaches of Kupwara and Ganderbal, the rain has triggered minor landslides, blocking interior roads and temporarily cutting off access to some remote villages. Emergency teams have been deployed to restore connectivity and clear debris.
An official from the Disaster Management Department said, “We are monitoring the situation closely. Control rooms have been activated in all districts, and teams are on standby for any evacuation or relief measures that may be needed.”
The inclement weather has also affected the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, with authorities temporarily suspending pilgrim movement along certain stretches of the route due to slippery conditions and poor visibility.
The Meteorological Department has forecast continued rainfall over the next 24 hours, with gradual improvement expected by Wednesday.
Meanwhile, residents have taken to social media to share visuals of flooded streets, damaged infrastructure, and hailstorm activity reported in a few pockets of South Kashmir.
Authorities are urging people to avoid unnecessary travel and to follow advisories as Kashmir braces for another spell of intense monsoon activity.