Authorities warn of cloudbursts, landslides, and mudslides across vulnerable districts; citizens urged to stay alert and avoid water bodies.
By: Javid Amin | 18 Aug 2025
The Alert in Detail
The Meteorological Department of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a fresh alert warning of heavy rain, flash floods, and cloudbursts between August 17–19. The advisory highlights a high risk of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas, especially in hilly districts.
According to the MeT office, the most affected regions are expected to be:
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Heavy Rainfall Zones: Reasi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, Samba, and Kathua (Jammu division).
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Moderate Showers & Gusty Winds: Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, and parts of the Kashmir valley.
Forecast Beyond August 19
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August 20–22: Hot and humid weather with brief thundershowers in some areas.
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August 23–25: Another spell of light to moderate rain, with heavy rain in pockets.
This weather cycle indicates alternating phases of intense rainfall and humidity, making landslides and flash floods a recurring threat.
Advisory for Citizens
The Met Department has urged residents and travelers to remain cautious:
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Stay away from rivers, streams, and loose soil slopes.
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Avoid unnecessary travel in landslide-prone areas.
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Tourists, trekkers, and transporters must plan journeys carefully.
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Farmers and orchardists have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect crops.
Lessons from Kishtwar Tragedy
The new alert comes days after warnings were allegedly overlooked in Kishtwar, where a sudden cloudburst triggered deadly flash floods, causing casualties and widespread damage. Officials now emphasize the importance of heeding advisories to avoid repeat tragedies.
Conclusion
Jammu and Kashmir’s climate vulnerability continues to grow, with extreme weather becoming more frequent and unpredictable. The latest alert underscores the urgent need for preparedness, early response, and strict adherence to safety guidelines to safeguard lives and livelihoods.
