Heavy rains, gusty winds lash parts of Kashmir

Srinagar , Jul 21: Gusty winds and heavy showers lashed parts of Srinagar late Monday evening, causing power outages and damage to property in certain areas, as the Kashmir valley braces for a fresh spell of intense weather.

Strong winds accompanied by sudden downpours were reported from several areas along the Dal Lake, including Dalgate, Dargah, Habak, Nishat, and Shalimar. In Habak, Dargah the windstorm uprooted trees and damaged rooftops and electric infrastructure, plunging parts of the area into darkness.

Water-logging was also reported in several downtown areas, including Hawal.

The Meteorological Department had earlier forecast intermittent spells of rain, thundershowers, and gusty winds across Jammu and Kashmir, with intense showers in some areas of the Valley and heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the Jammu region.

According to the MET department, the rainfall has helped compensate for earlier shortfalls and improved agricultural conditions. However, Kashmir still faces a 28 percent annual rainfall deficit despite improved precipitation in July following a hot and dry June.

"As expected, the weather system has moved into Kashmir and is bringing widespread showers," the MET office said earlier in the day. “On July 22 and 23, most places in Jammu and Kashmir are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall. However, no continuous rain is expected.”

Authorities have issued a red alert for several areas, including Katra, Reasi, Samba, Udhampur, Jammu, Kulgam, Anantnag, Shopian, and Srinagar, warning of possible flash floods.

The Tawi river was reportedly overflowing due to heavy rain in Jammu, and residents have been advised to stay away from riverbanks. Intermittent rain is expected across the Union Territory through July 24. The forecast for July 23–24 includes generally cloudy skies with moderate rain or thundershowers at many places, and intense showers at a few locations. From July 25–27, the weather is expected to be hot and humid, with the possibility of brief showers in some areas.

The MET department has also warned of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones, especially along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. Farmers have been advised to suspend all agricultural operations from July 21 to 24.