Jammu and Kashmir flash floods: 10 dead, hundreds evacuated as heavy rains wreak havoc in Rajouri, Poonch
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir until July 23
Heavy overnight rainfall has caused flash floods and river overflows in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, resulting in at least four deaths and the evacuation of hundreds. The floods submerged vehicles and damaged infrastructure, prompting rescue operations. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh faces a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
Heavy overnight rainfall has caused flash floods and river overflows in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, resulting in at least four deaths and the evacuation of hundreds. The floods submerged vehicles and damaged infrastructure, prompting rescue operations. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh faces a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
Heavy overnight rainfall has caused flash floods and river overflows in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, resulting in at least four deaths and the evacuation of hundreds. The floods submerged vehicles and damaged infrastructure, prompting rescue operations. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh faces a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
At least 10 people were killed, and hundreds of residents were forced to flee to safer locations early on Sunday after heavy overnight rain triggered flash floods and caused rivers to overflow into low-lying areas of Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district.
Reportedly, several people have gone missing.
Floodwaters entered several parts of Rajouri town, including the new bus stand, after the rivers burst their banks. Several vehicles were swept away or left submerged, causing widespread disruption. Landslides were also reported in Poonch.
Rescue and relief teams were deployed to evacuate the affected families and assess the damage.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the government is closely monitoring the situation.
The flash floods have caused extensive damage to both private and public infrastructure.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir until July 23.
"One woman is missing. Everything we had has been washed away," a resident told ANI.
"I have abandoned my party programme to stand with my people, as the flash floods have caused extensive damage to public and private property," said Congress MLA Iftkhar Ahmad.
Widespread disruption was reported as the Darhali, Khandli, Suktoh, and Jamola rivers overflowed. Near Bela Colony, the Darhali River breached a flood protection wall, inundating the new bus stand and sweeping away multiple vehicles.
Over 50 families living near Abdullah Bridge were forced to evacuate after floodwaters entered their homes. Residents near Tariq Bridge were also evacuated after police received several SOS calls.
Police personnel have been deployed to flood-prone areas across the district. Authorities are making urgent public announcements, advising people living near riverbanks and in low-lying localities to evacuate immediately.
The district administration also issued an advisory asking residents to remain alert.
Red alert in Himachal
The IMD has issued a red alert for parts of Himachal Pradesh on July 20 and 21, warning of extremely heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides.
A red alert has been issued for Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, and Sirmaur, which are expected to receive the heaviest rainfall. Meanwhile, several other districts across the region remain under orange and yellow alerts.
While speaking to ANI, Sandeep Kumar Sharma, Senior Scientist at the IMD's Meteorological Centre in Shimla, advised residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain.