Flash floods hit J&K parts after intense rainfall

Srinagar, Aug 19: Flash floods were witnessed in parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday following intense spells of rainfall, officials said.
A flash flood occurred in the Wangath area of Ganderbal district, while minor flash floods were also reported from Haknar and Gund areas of the district following an intense spell of rainfall between 1 pm and 3 pm, according to initial reports.
There were no reports of any loss of life or damage to property in the affected areas, officials said.
A flash flood was also reported from the Shadab Karewa area of Shopian district, while an extremely heavy spell of rain accompanied by gusty winds lashed parts of the district.
The Meteorological Centre, Srinagar, said rain was being reported from several parts of north, central and south Kashmir, besides Reasi, Rajouri, Poonch, Banihal-Ramban, Kishtwar and adjoining areas.
It said the current spell of rain and thundershowers was continuing over many places, with brief intense heavy showers reported over Tral and adjoining areas, parts of Ganderbal including Kangan, hilly areas of Budgam, Shopian and Kulgam, and parts of Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar.
The weather department warned that intense heavy showers could trigger localised flash floods, mudslides and landslides, particularly in hilly areas. It also cautioned about the possibility of shooting stones and landslides at vulnerable locations.
Jammu recorded 88.7 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8:30 am, while Samba received 85 mm and Kathua 76.6 mm, according to rainfall data compiled by Kashmir Weather.
Katra recorded 48.2 mm, Reasi 39 mm, Udhampur 32.2 mm, Batote 28.8 mm, Banihal 20.7 mm, Doda 9 mm, Ramban 6.5 mm, Jammu Airport 33 mm and Bhaderwah 1.8 mm during the period.
Poonch recorded 1.5 mm, while no rainfall was recorded in Rajouri and Kishtwar during the same period.
The Meteorological Centre has forecast generally hot and humid conditions in J&K from August 20 to 22, with one or two spells of light to moderate rain or thundershowers at scattered to many places and brief intense heavy showers in a few districts during early morning and afternoon hours.
From August 23 to 27, generally hot and humid weather is expected, with brief spells of rain or thundershowers at scattered places during the early morning and afternoon hours.
The weather department advised people, particularly those in vulnerable and hilly areas, to remain cautious during intense rainfall spells.
It also said farmers could continue harvesting and other agricultural operations, subject to local weather conditions. (KNO)