Jammu Kashmir Braces for Wet Spell as MeT Warns of Heavy Rain, Flash Floods.

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is set to witness a prolonged spell of wet weather, with the Meteorological Department forecasting rain and thundershowers at many places across the Union Territory through August 17 and warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Jammu division and intense showers in some areas of Kashmir between August 9 and 11. Light to moderate rainfall was recorded across several parts of J&K, with South Kashmir receiving significant precipitation; Kokernag recorded 11 mm, Qazigund 8.6 mm and Pahalgam 5.5 mm, while Srinagar and Gulmarg received 1.6 mm and 0.8 mm respectively in the 24 hours ending Saturday morning. In Jammu division, Batote recorded the highest rainfall at 18.4 mm, followed by Banihal with 16 mm, Bhaderwah 13.6 mm, Katra 7 mm and Jammu 4 mm. The rainfall also kept daytime temperatures below normal across Kashmir, with Srinagar recording a maximum of 26.1°C, Qazigund 22.6°C, Pahalgam 20°C, Kokernag 22°C and Gulmarg 18.4°C. For August 9 to 11, the MeT has forecast light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, accompanied by brief spells of intense showers at a few locations, while heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in some districts of Jammu division and intense showers may affect parts of Kashmir. The weather department has warned that torrential rainfall and brief intense showers could trigger flash floods, landslides and waterlogging in vulnerable and low-lying areas, prompting residents to avoid nallahs, landslide-prone locations and other vulnerable spots during periods of intense rainfall. Authorities have also been advised to remain alert and closely monitor areas at risk. The wet spell is expected to continue beyond August 11, with light rain and thundershowers forecast at many places from August 12 to 17, indicating continued unsettled weather across Jammu and Kashmir. Residents are advised to remain cautious, follow official weather advisories and take necessary precautions in areas vulnerable to heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides and waterlogging.