J-K Weather: Cloudburst Wreaks Havoc In Kishtwar; Washes Away Vehicles, National Highway Closed

J-K Cloudburst: A cloudburst struck the Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district in the early hours of Saturday, leading to damage to the infrastructure. The officials, while providing details, stated that the incident occurred in the Chatru region, adding that multiple vehicles were swept away due to the water flow. The cloudburst has also caused severe damage to the private properties and infrastructure.

National Highway Closed 

However, the authority assured that no causalities were reported in the incident, adding that the exact extent of the damage is still being assessed. The officials further stated that the incident has led to the closure of the Chatroo–Kishtwar National Highway, leading to inconveniences to the commuters. The authorities continue to monitor the situation and the residents have been advised to follow the guidelines to avoid any inconveniences.

ALSO READ: Jammu-Srinagar National Highway Shut As Heavy Rain Disrupts Traffic; IMD Forecasts More Showers

Earlier on Friday, the Amarnath Yatra via the Baltal route was suspended as the monsoon rains continued to lash various districts of the Jammu division. The administration had already closed the traditional Pahalgam route amid the changing weather conditions. The officials stated that the continuous landslides in the vulnerable regions have affected vehicular movement on the highway.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for nearly all ten districts of the Jammu division until August 5, warning of heavy rainfall between 100 and 200 millimetres. The forecast raises the risk of flash floods, landslides, and falling rocks in hilly areas.

ALSO READ: Jammu-Kashmir Monsoon Fury: Heavy Rain Alert Till Aug 5; Schools Closed, Highways Blocked Amid Landslides

The Chief Education Officer (CEO) of Poonch has declared a holiday for all government and private educational institutions in the district on July 31. The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and school staff until weather conditions improve.

Along with Jammu and Kashmir, several districts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand have also witnessed heavy to very heavy rainfall in the past few days. The residents of these regions have been advised to stay updated and plan their travel accordingly.