SRINAGAR: The Government has revealed alarming data on the toll of extreme weather events over the past five years, showing a disturbing trend in fatalities due to natural calamities in Jammu and Kashmir. According to the Earth Sciences Ministry, more than 200 people have lost their lives between 2019 and 2023 in Jammu and Kashmir due to various extreme weather incidents, including snowfall, flooding, lightning, and heavy rains.
The figures released in response to a query in the Lok Sabha highlight the growing severity of these events across the years. In 2023 alone, a total of 54 fatalities were reported, with flooding and heavy rains being the most deadly, accounting for 40 deaths. Snowfall claimed the lives of 9 people, while lightning incidents led to the deaths of 5.
The year 2022 saw a slightly higher toll of 57 deaths, with the majority – 43 people – succumbing to floods and heavy rains. Snowfall claimed the lives of 3, while lightning incidents led to 7 deaths. The year also saw 4 fatalities due to gale force winds.
In 2021, the toll was lower, with 32 deaths in total. However, the data still reveals the destructive potential of extreme weather, including 21 deaths due to flooding and rains. Lightning struck 4 people, while snowfall caused 4 fatalities. The year also recorded 2 deaths from cold waves and 1 due to a hailstorm.
The year 2020 was particularly deadly, with 38 deaths attributed to extreme weather events. Flooding accounted for 13 deaths, while gale-force winds claimed 3 lives. Lightning killed 5, and snowfall led to 17 fatalities.
The data for 2019 showed 10 people lost their lives to extreme weather, including 7 in snowfall and 3 in thunder-related incidents.
The Government’s response to these tragedies includes various initiatives aimed at mitigating the impact of such weather events.
These tragic numbers underline the urgent need for continued investment in climate resilience and disaster preparedness, especially as the country faces the growing impacts of climate change. As extreme weather becomes a more frequent reality, the Government’s focus on strengthening disaster management systems and ensuring quicker relief to affected communities is expected to play a crucial role in saving lives and minimising damage in the years ahead.
