Adverse weather advisory for flood-ravaged Poonch, Rajouri; alert issued after surge in Kishenganga River

Jammu/Srinagar: Poonch and Rajouri districts in J&K remain vulnerable to rain-related damage in the next 48 hours as the administration in Bandipora district issued an adverse weather advisory on Tuesday due to a surge in the Kishenganga River water level.

The Meteorological Department said Poonch and Rajouri districts have received over 50 mm of rainfall during the last three days, leaving the soil already saturated with the ground losing most of its ability to absorb further water. This will result in more runoff and reduction in slope stability, especially in higher reaches of the district. The result of this is the marked increase in the likelihood of landslides, mudslides, flash floods, slope failures, and structural damage, particularly in hilly terrain and along vulnerable road corridors.

Another key concern is that the Western Disturbance expected during the next two days is likely to enhance rainfall over these districts. Since Poonch and Rajouri lie in the lap of the Pir Panjal range, they are typically among the first areas in Jammu and Kashmir to be impacted by approaching Western Disturbances.

With soil saturation, weakened slopes, and the likelihood of additional rainfall, even moderate/heavy showers could trigger fresh incidents. Consequently, Poonch and Rajouri remain at the highest risk of weather-related damage during the next 48 hours, and residents should remain alert for rapidly changing conditions, said officials.

Meanwhile, in view of adverse weather conditions and the rising water level in the Kishanganga River, the Sub-Divisional Administration in Gurez has advised all tourists and local tent colony owners to immediately vacate the riverbanks as a precautionary measure.

The advisory follows back-to-back cloudbursts that struck Zedgai village in Tulail Valley and Achoora village in Gurez on Monday evening.

The incidents marked the third cloudburst reported in Bandipora district within the past week. According to initial reports, the cloudbursts caused damage to several houses and agricultural land.

A sudden increase in water discharge also raised concerns about flash floods and further damage along the riverbanks.

The administration has urged residents and visitors to avoid rivers, streams, and vulnerable areas and strictly follow official advisories.

Authorities are continuously monitoring the situation while assessment teams are being deployed to evaluate the extent of the damage.

IANS