Heavy spell of rainfall on Wednesday brought down temperatures several notches below normal bringing relief from hot and humid weather conditions in Kashmir. The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecasted a two-day wet spell from 20-22th July in the region, officials said.
Director of Meteorological Department Centre Kashmir Sonam Lotus told Rising Kashmir that light rain lashed parts of the Valley bringing respite from scorching heatwave in the region.
“We are expecting light to moderate rain with thunder, lightning at many places with intense showers for short periods at few places during next 4-6 hrs, it will decrease later,” he said.
Lotus further said that Katra received all-time extremely heavy rain of 315.4mm in 24 hrs. This is the heaviest since 1980. Earlier it was 292.4mm on 31st July 2019.
He said from 20th July, they were expecting intermittent light to moderate rain, and thundershowers at many places in Jammu and Kashmir. There is a possibility of heavy rains in the Jammu region during this week.
“There is a risk of flash floods, mudslides, and landslides has increased due to heavy rain. People are advised to remain cautious and stay away from streams, rivers, and other vulnerable spots,” he added.
As per the traffic police spokesman, the Srinagar-Jammu highway has been closed after fresh landslides blocked the highway at Mehar Cafeteria morth.
“NHW blocked at various places due to 2 mudslides/shooting stones. People are advised not to travel till the restoration work is completed,” he said.
Deputy Commissioner, Ramban said that NH-44 is blocked at certain places due to mud slush and shooting stones. People are advised to avoid traveling, till road clearance works are executed, he added.
