DH NEWS SERVICE
Srinagar, Jul 31
Heavy rainfall lashed several parts of Kashmir on Friday, triggering flash floods in some areas and disrupting normal life, while the Meteorological Department forecast continued wet weather across the Valley over the coming days. Although no loss of life was reported, the intense rain affected roads, educational institutions and low-lying areas, prompting authorities to closely monitor the developing situation.
According to officials, widespread rainfall began overnight and continued through Friday morning across most parts of the Kashmir Valley. Districts including Budgam, Baramulla and Bandipora received significant rainfall, leading to waterlogging in several areas and causing a rapid rise in local streams and drains. The persistent downpour resulted in flash floods in parts of Baramulla and Bandipora districts, affecting public infrastructure and disrupting daily activities.
One of the worst-affected areas was Saderkoot Bala in Bandipora district, where heavy rainfall triggered flash floods that inundated roads and entered residential localities. The sudden surge of muddy water also affected the Government Primary School located in Ganie Mohalla, Malpora. Water entered classrooms, damaging mats and other educational material kept inside the school premises. In view of the situation and to ensure the safety of students, the school administration suspended classes for the day.
Officials said local authorities immediately assessed the situation and initiated measures to clear water from the affected premises. The administration also reviewed the condition of roads and public infrastructure impacted by the flash floods to restore normal movement as quickly as possible.
In Baramulla district, flash floods were reported from the Brennar area of Sopore town following intense rainfall. While floodwaters entered some low-lying areas, officials confirmed that no significant damage to property had been reported. There were also no reports of injuries or casualties from the affected areas. The district administration remained on alert and directed field officials to keep a close watch on vulnerable locations in case of further rainfall.
The recent spell of heavy rain has once again highlighted the vulnerability of several areas in Kashmir to flash floods during periods of intense precipitation. Experts have often pointed out that blocked drainage systems, rapid urbanisation and encroachments along natural water channels can aggravate flooding, particularly during cloudbursts or prolonged rainfall.
Authorities have urged residents living in flood-prone and low-lying areas to remain cautious and follow advisories issued by the district administration. Disaster management teams and field officials have been instructed to remain prepared for any emergency situation arising from the continuing wet weather.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has predicted that widespread light to moderate rainfall is likely to continue across Jammu and Kashmir over the next twenty-four hours. The forecast indicates that many places in the Kashmir Valley may experience intermittent spells of rain accompanied by thunder, while a few locations could receive brief but intense heavy showers.
Weather officials have further stated that the prevailing weather pattern is expected to continue until August 4, with periodic rainfall likely across several districts. The department has advised people, particularly those living near rivers, streams and hilly areas, to remain vigilant as heavy showers may lead to localised waterlogging, flash floods, landslides or shooting stones in vulnerable locations.
The administration has assured that all concerned departments remain on alert and are closely monitoring the weather situation. Officials said necessary precautionary measures are being taken to minimise inconvenience to the public and respond promptly to any weather-related emergencies as the Valley continues to witness an active monsoon spell.
