Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, July 20

Jammu and Kashmir faces the risk of further flash floods, landslides and mudslides as heavy to extremely heavy rain is forecast in parts of the union territory through July 23, authorities said on Monday.

The Meteorological Department issued a red alert for vulnerable areas, while the Irrigation and Flood Control Department warned of possible flash floods in south Kashmir following forecasts of intense rainfall over the Jhelum basin.

Anantnag, Kulgam and Shopian could receive 50-100 mm of rain by Tuesday morning, with another spell expected on Wednesday, according to the India Meteorological Department.

Rainfall was widespread across the region on Monday. Sopore recorded the highest rainfall in Kashmir over 24 hours at 55.4 mm, followed by Ganderbal at 46 mm and Srinagar at 45.6 mm.

In Jammu division, Poonch received 66 mm, Rajouri 54.8 mm, and Katra 53.2 mm.

The flood control department urged residents to stay away from rivers, streams and other vulnerable areas and avoid unnecessary travel.

“Water levels in the major tributaries and the River Jhelum are also expected to rise,” the department said in its advisory.

MeT Director Mukhtar Ahmad said the Pir Panjal range and Chenab Valley were likely to receive the heaviest rainfall, while south Kashmir could experience brief spells of torrential rain.

Despite the widespread rainfall, water levels in the Jhelum and its major tributaries remained below the alarm and danger marks on Monday evening.

The rain brought relief from a brief spell of hot weather in Kashmir, although humid conditions persisted.