Jammu and Kashmir witnessed one of its heaviest downpours in recent history, causing widespread flooding, highway disruptions, and property damage. The winter capital Jammu recorded 190.4 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours, marking the second-highest August rainfall in over a century. The last record stood at 189.6 mm in 2022, while the all-time high remains 228.6 mm recorded in 1926.
Flood Alerts and Weather Warnings
Authorities have issued advisories urging people to stay away from water bodies, drains, and landslide-prone areas. The meteorological department predicts moderate to intense rainfall until August 27, with the possibility of cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides in higher altitudes. Disaster response teams remain on high alert across sensitive districts.
National Highways and Key Roads Affected
Despite the relentless rain, the 250-km Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and the 434-km Srinagar-Leh National Highway remain open for traffic. However, the Mughal Road and Sinthan Road have been closed due to multiple landslides.
In Kathua district, a vital bridge near Logate Morh on the Jammu-Pathankot Highway was badly damaged after the Sahar Khad stream overflowed. Traffic has now been diverted to an alternate route, causing delays and congestion.
Urban Flooding and Property Damage
Normal life in Jammu city came to a standstill as streams and drains overflowed, flooding major areas such as Janipur, Roop Nagar, Talab Tilloo, Jewel Chowk, New Plot, and Sanjay Nagar.
- Floodwaters entered homes
- Boundary walls of several houses collapsed
- Nearly a dozen vehicles were swept away in flash floods
Rivers Swelling Across the Region
Rivers and streams including the Basantar in Samba, Ujh and Ravi in Kathua, Chenab in Doda and Kishtwar, and Tawi in Udhampur have risen sharply. Authorities have deployed additional teams to monitor the situation, especially in low-lying and vulnerable zones.
Regional Rainfall Highlights
- Udhampur: 144.2 mm
- Katra (Vaishno Devi base camp): 115 mm
- Samba: 109 mm
- Kathua: 90.2 mm
- Srinagar: 13.5 mm
Jammu Municipal Corporation – Weather Alert
Due to adverse weather conditions, some areas in Jammu are experiencing waterlogging and fallen trees.
📞 Emergency Helplines:
- For dewatering assistance: 9419027458, 9469300005, 9419156769
- For fallen trees: 9419220844
Residents are advised to stay cautious and contact the above numbers for immediate assistance.
So far, no casualties have been reported, but landslides have blocked several routes in Rajouri, Poonch, and Gurez.
The heavy rainfall has not only affected transportation and infrastructure but also disrupted pilgrimage routes, agriculture, and local businesses. With continued rain in the forecast, residents are advised to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel.
