Srinagar, July 11: A sudden spell of gusty winds and heavy rainfall disrupted normal life in parts of North and Central Kashmir on Friday evening, with reports of damage primarily from the Kralgund area of Kupwara district.In Kralgund Market, strong winds uprooted several tin rooftops, damaging multiple parked vehicles. Eyewitnesses described a sudden, intense storm that caused panic among shopkeepers and customers. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.Elsewhere in Kupwara district, two residential houses sustained partial damage in the Nichama area of Rajwar. In Lolab, a heavy hailstorm caused considerable damage to standing crops, adding to the woes of local farmers. Despite the intensity of the weather, there were no reports of injuries from these areas.Gusty winds were also reported from Handwara and several adjoining parts of Kupwara district, as well as from Kangan in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district. However, officials confirmed there were no major reports of structural damage beyond Kralgund and Nichama.
Baramulla and Srinagar also experienced brief spells of rain and wind, leading to minor disruptions in traffic and electricity supply, but no significant incidents were reported.Director MeT Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, said that the weather in Jammu and Kashmir will remain hot and humid from July 11 to 13. There may be light rain or thundershowers at some places during this period.From July 14 to 16, there is a possibility of light to moderate rain or thundershowers at many places. Some areas may receive heavy rain or intense showers.On July 17 and 18, the weather will be partly cloudy, with chances of brief rain or thundershowers at a few places.As per advisory, there is a chance of intense showers in some areas of J\&K from July 14 to 16. Isolated places in Jammu Division may receive heavy rain. There is also a risk of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable areas.Farmers are advised to carry out farm work from July 11 to 13, when the weather is expected to remain mostly dry.Wind speeds are expected to range between 40 and 50 kmph, prompting advisories for the public to stay away from loose structures, old trees, and exposed electric lines.Authorities are monitoring the situation and have initiated damage assessment and restoration measures in the affected areas.
