Flash Floods, Landslides Kill 4 In Doda, IMD Issues Severe Weather Alerts News24 –

Jammu and Kashmir is reeling from the impact of heavy rainfall that has triggered severe weather alerts, including warnings for landslides and cloudbursts, as issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Over the past 24 hours, relentless downpours have claimed at least four lives in Doda district and caused significant damage to properties across the Jammu region.

According to officials, two fatalities occurred when a house collapsed under the weight of continuous rainfall, while the other two deaths were linked to flash floods caused by swollen streams. The district administration in Doda has reported extensive damage to residential structures and other properties, prompting immediate rescue and relief operations.

In response to the ongoing situation, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened an emergency meeting with officials and announced plans to travel to Jammu to oversee the ground situation. “The situation in many parts of Jammu province is quite serious,” Abdullah stated in a post on X, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness. He assured that additional funds would be allocated for emergency restoration work.

The ongoing inclement weather has led to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) due to multiple landslides, flash floods, and falling rocks. Authorities have also shut down all schools in Jammu as a precautionary measure. The Tawi Bridge from the Bikram Chowk side has been closed for traffic, with diversions implemented towards alternative routes.

IMD Issues Severe Weather Alerts

The IMD has issued orange and yellow alerts for various districts of the UT, warning residents of the potential for further flash floods, landslides, and rising water levels in rivers, including the Tawi, which has already crossed the flood alert mark. Forecasts indicate that heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected to persist in several areas, particularly in Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Doda, and Kishtwar. In the Valley, South Kashmir is projected to face the maximum impact, especially in the higher reaches where intense rainfall — and even snowfall on upper reaches of the Pir Panjal — could trigger flash floods and downstream surges.

Authorities are urging people, especially those living in low-lying and hilly regions, to exercise extreme caution as intermittent showers continue. Rescue teams comprising police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and civil defense personnel have been deployed in the worst-affected areas to assist families in distress.

In view of bad weather conditions, Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) postponed exams of 10th and 11th classes scheduled to be held on Wednesday.

An official said, “All the exams of Class 10th and 11th scheduled for 27.08.2025 stands postponed.” The board said that it will announce fresh dates will be separately.