Jammu: Rain lashed several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, with the Jammu division receiving some of the heaviest showers, prompting precautionary measures in Poonch and triggering a rescue operation in Rajouri.
In Poonch, the administration ordered all schools in the district to remain closed on Wednesday as heavy rainfall led to a rise in the water level of rivers and streams.
The Chief Education Officer issued the closure order, while authorities said the situation was being continuously monitored and further decisions would be taken according to the weather conditions.
In Rajouri, 10 people, including six children, were rescued after they became stranded in the Bhadoon area following a sudden rise in the water level of the Jamola River.
The rescue operation was jointly carried out by police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
Authorities advised people to exercise extreme caution near rivers, streams and other water bodies and avoid such areas during adverse weather, particularly when water levels rise suddenly.
The Jammu region recorded some of the highest rainfall in J&K during the past 24 hours. Kathua received 73 mm of rain, followed by Katra with 62 mm, Poonch 38.5 mm and Udhampur 27 mm. Reasi recorded 21 mm, while Samba and Rajouri received 11 mm and 10.5 mm respectively.
The weather also remained unsettled in parts of Kashmir, with rainfall reported from Shopian, Kulgam, Pulwama, Bandipora and parts of Budgam and Kupwara.
In Pahalgam, heavy rain over the surrounding mountains triggered a sudden flash-flood-like situation on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in a sharp increase in water flow at some locations. There was no immediate official report of loss of life or major damage.
Local administration and concerned departments remained alert and monitored the situation. Tourists and residents were advised to stay away from rivers, streams and waterlogged areas.
The Meteorological Centre has forecast generally cloudy weather on September 2, with light to moderate rain and thundershowers likely at many places across J&K.
The Jammu division is likely to witness brief intense to heavy showers, particularly during the early morning and again during the late afternoon and evening. Such intense spells may trigger flash floods, mudslides and landslides at vulnerable locations.
On September 3, weather is expected to remain generally dry, with brief showers possible at a few places. Another spell of light to moderate rain and thundershowers is likely on September 4, accompanied by brief intense showers at some locations.
From September 5 to 12, generally dry weather is expected, although brief spells of rain or thundershowers may occur at isolated to scattered places, particularly during the early morning and afternoon.
The weather department has advised people in vulnerable areas to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary movement near rivers, streams and landslide-prone slopes during intense rainfall.
Farmers may continue harvesting and other agricultural operations while keeping local weather conditions in mind.
