Kashmir Valley faces stormy weather as strong winds create havoc

Srinagar, Mar 28:
Strong winds hit Kashmir from Thursday night into Friday, causing extensive damage across the region. Trees and branches were uprooted, and rooftops, houses, vehicles, and other infrastructure were significantly impacted.
In Srinagar, several vehicles parked at the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) were damaged by gusty winds. Similar reports of damage have also emerged from Bandipora, Anantnag, and other parts of the Valley.
Kulgam district was particularly affected, with several villages suffering severe damage. In Modergam, a large poplar tree fell on the home of Irshad Ahmad Ganie, damaging the roof.
“In Adijan, the house of Gh. Mohammad Wani was affected, while in Shurat, Farooq Ahmad Kumar’s residence sustained damage. The rooftop of a residential property-cum-car garage in Zangulpora was blown off onto the road due to the strength of the winds,” an official reported. “Rooftop damage has also been reported from Pombay and other surrounding areas.”
A senior official from the Kulgam administration told Rising Kashmir that reports of damage have been received from across the district, and authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the losses.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar had forecast light rain and thunderstorms in isolated areas on Friday, March 28, along with strong surface winds of 60-70 km/h across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions, lasting until the afternoon.
“The weather is expected to remain generally dry from March 29 to April 6,” the MeT department said in its forecast.
The MeT has also issued an advisory, urging travellers, tourists, and transporters to follow administrative and traffic guidelines.
“Farmers have been advised to resume agricultural activities after Friday. The public is cautioned to stay indoors, avoid boating or Shikara rides, and refrain from standing near weak structures or electrical wires, as strong winds may persist until the afternoon,” the MeT department added.