SRINAGAR: Heavy rains continued to lash several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, while a cloudburst in the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district washed away several vehicles, damaged property and led to the closure of the Chatroo–Kishtwar National Highway. Authorities also ordered the closure of schools in Kishtwar and Doda as a precaution.
Officials said the cloudburst struck Chatroo at around 2.30 a.m., triggering flash floods that reportedly swept away several vehicles and caused damage to property. However, no loss of life or injuries had been reported till the filing of this report.
The exact extent of the damage is being assessed, while officials continue to monitor the affected area.
Heavy rainfall also affected several other parts of the Union Territory, including Kulgam, Anantnag, Shopian, Pulwama, Pampore, Srinagar, Ganderbal and adjoining areas.
Following the cloudburst, the Chatroo–Kishtwar National Highway was closed to vehicular traffic as a precautionary measure.
Amid the prevailing weather conditions, the District Administration Kishtwar ordered the closure of all government and private schools across the district on August 1, 2026. The order, issued by the Chief Education Officer, Kishtwar, cited heavy rainfall, slippery road conditions and the risk of shooting stones. It said classes would continue through online platforms to ensure academic activities were not disrupted.
The District Administration Doda also suspended classwork in all government and private schools for the day due to adverse weather. The Chief Education Officer, Doda, directed schools to conduct classes online as per schedule.
Authorities have advised people to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable areas until weather conditions improve. Further assessment of the damage caused by the cloudburst is underway, officials said.
