Rains, Thunderstorms lash parts of Kashmir
MeT forecast more rain till June 22
Srinagar: Heavy thunderstorms accompanied by rain and hailstorm hit several parts of Kashmir on Tuesday evening, bringing a sharp change in weather conditions across the Valley, officials said.
The weather activity was reported from various areas of north and central Kashmir, including Srinagar and Baramulla districts, where intense showers, thunder and gusty winds affected normal movement in several localities.
Residents of Bagh-i-Mehtab in Srinagar reported heavy thunderstorms and rain, while parts of Baramulla district experienced a hailstorm. Similar weather conditions were witnessed in several other areas as dark clouds engulfed much of the Valley.
According to meteorological officials, the fresh spell of weather activity developed over north and central Kashmir before spreading to other areas. Some places witnessed brief but intense showers accompanied by strong winds and lightning.
Officials said the weather system may extend to parts of south Kashmir later in the night.
The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast generally cloudy weather with intermittent spells of rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds over the next several days.
According to the forecast, Jammu and Kashmir is likely to witness partly to generally cloudy weather with light rain, brief intense showers, thunder and lightning at scattered places on June 16 and 17.
From June 18 to 22, the weather office has predicted generally cloudy conditions with one or two spells of light rain, thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms and gusty winds at many places across the Union Territory.
Weather conditions are expected to improve slightly between June 23 and 25, although a few places may continue to receive light rain and thundershowers, the forecast said.
The MeT department has issued an advisory asking people to remain cautious during periods of thunderstorm activity. It advised residents to stay away from loose structures, electric poles, hanging wires and old trees that could pose risks during strong winds.
Authorities have also advised suspension of boating and shikara operations during thunderstorms, lightning and gusty wind conditions on water bodies.
The weather office warned that brief intense showers at isolated places could trigger flash floods, mudslides and localised waterlogging in vulnerable areas.
No major damage or casualties were immediately reported from the affected areas, officials said, while adding that the situation was being monitored closely. (KNS)
