Jammu: After days of summer heat, several parts of Jammu region witnessed widespread rainfall and thunderstorm activity on Tuesday, bringing temporary relief from soaring temperatures but also triggering weather-related concerns across vulnerable areas.
According to the Meteorological Department, rain accompanied by thunder, lightning and gusty winds affected Jammu district along with parts of Kathua, Reasi, Ramban, Kishtwar, Rajouri and Poonch, while intermittent showers were also recorded across higher reaches.
Data released by the Meteorological Centre, Srinagar, showed that Jammu city received one of the season’s notable rainfall spells with more than 54 mm rainfall recorded during the past 24 hours.
Poonch received the highest precipitation in the Jammu division at 56 mm, while Samba recorded around 21 mm rainfall. Udhampur and Rajouri also witnessed measurable rainfall activity.
The sudden change in weather led to a noticeable dip in daytime temperatures across the region. Jammu recorded a maximum temperature of 38°C, marginally below normal, while several stations across the division remained one to two degrees below seasonal averages. Night temperatures also stayed lower than normal at many places.
Officials said rain and cloud activity intensified during afternoon hours, accompanied by localised thunderstorm conditions. Though no major damage was officially reported from Jammu division till evening, authorities remained alert as weather conditions continued to fluctuate.
Meanwhile, strong winds and rain affected parts of Kashmir Valley as well, where gusty conditions reportedly caused damage to some houses and shops in north Kashmir. Authorities temporarily halted movement of tourists on Dal Lake as a precautionary measure.
The Meteorological Department has forecast continued unstable weather conditions across Jammu and Kashmir during the coming week.
For June 17, the department has predicted partly to generally cloudy weather with scattered spells of light rain, brief intense showers, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across the Union Territory.
From June 18 to June 22, weather activity is expected to become more widespread with generally cloudy conditions and one or two spells of light to moderate rain accompanied by thunder, lightning, hailstorm activity and gusty winds at several places.
Weather warnings issued by the department indicate the possibility of isolated thunderstorms and lightning events with wind speeds of 40–50 kmph and gusts reaching up to 60 kmph during the forecast period.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary movement during thunderstorms and remain cautious near electric poles, overhead wires, old trees and vulnerable structures. People have also been urged to stay alert in hilly belts vulnerable to flash floods, mudslides and shooting stones during brief but intense rain spells.
The advisory assumes significance as tourist movement remains high across the region and preparations gather pace for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra.
Officials said weather conditions will continue to remain dynamic over the next few days and people are advised to follow official advisories before planning travel or outdoor activities.
