SRINAGAR: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir over the next five days, warning of heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds, particularly in the Jammu division, with an increased risk of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones and waterlogging in vulnerable areas till July 23.
According to the IMD, fairly widespread to widespread light to moderate rain and thunderstorms are expected across the Union Territory during the next 24 hours. The weather is likely to intensify over the following two days, with widespread moderate to heavy rainfall expected in many areas. The forecast indicates widespread rainfall will continue across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions until July 23 before gradually reducing from July 24 onwards.
The weather office has issued an impact-based warning, stating that isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph are likely over Kashmir on July 19 and 20. From July 21 to 23, isolated places in the Valley could witness heavy rain along with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 60 kmph, raising the possibility of landslides, mudslides, flash floods and waterlogging in vulnerable locations.
The Jammu division faces a more severe outlook. While isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected on July 19, the IMD has warned of scattered heavy to isolated very heavy rainfall from July 20 to 23. These weather conditions may trigger landslides, mudslides, shooting stones, flash floods and waterlogging, especially in low-lying and hilly areas. Thunderstorm activity is expected to ease from July 24.
The five-day district-wise forecast indicates that the heaviest rainfall is likely over parts of Rajouri, Reasi, Ramban, Udhampur, Kathua and Samba between July 20 and 22, while several districts of Kashmir are expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall during the same period. The accompanying warning maps place parts of the Jammu region under orange and red alert categories, signalling the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness.
The IMD has advised people living in vulnerable areas to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall, and follow official advisories. It has also cautioned against venturing near rivers, streams, landslide-prone stretches and flood-prone areas. Authorities have been urged to remain prepared for possible disruptions caused by heavy rain and associated hazards.
Meanwhile, weather conditions over the past 24 hours remained active, with widespread light to heavy rainfall reported across the Union Territory. Dhampur recorded the highest rainfall at 101.6 mm, while day temperatures remained 3-5 degrees Celsius above normal in many parts of Kashmir. Srinagar recorded the highest maximum temperature in the Valley at 35.9°C, while Kathua registered 35.8°C in the Jammu division.
For Monday, the IMD has forecast light rain and thunderstorms in Srinagar with temperatures around 27°C/20°C, while Jammu is likely to witness moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms with temperatures around 28°C/25°C.
