Several houses damaged in Rajouri; JMC issues high alert

Dozens of houses were damaged following an intense hailstorm in the Kalakote tehsil of Rajouri district, triggered by persistent inclement weather in the higher reaches of the Jammu division.

In Mogla block, strong winds and hailstorm ripped off tin roofs of several homes, forcing many residents to seek shelter with relatives. Preliminary reports suggest that over 80 houses were damaged. The Rajouri administration has initiated a damage assessment survey.

Meanwhile, a major landslide sank a large section of the Kishtwar–Padder road, cutting off the entire Padder sub-division. Several families were relocated and provided with tents and essential supplies as a temporary relief measure.

In view of the deteriorating weather conditions, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) has issued a high alert following a fresh advisory from the Meteorological Department, which forecasts heavy rainfall and storms in the region.

JMC Commissioner Devansh Yadav has directed all officials to remain vigilant and ensure the swift clearance of roads blocked by fallen trees, electric poles, or debris. “There should be no loss of life or property during this period,” he stated.

To assist residents, JMC has set up two dedicated helpline numbers and urged citizens to stay indoors during severe weather and report emergencies promptly.

An active western disturbance has been affecting Jammu and Kashmir since Thursday, bringing widespread moderate rain and snow to several areas. The system is expected to persist until Sunday and may disrupt traffic on key routes, including the Jammu–Srinagar and Srinagar–Leh national highways.

In Ladakh, heavy rainfall was recorded in Kargil and Khalsi, while snowfall was reported in Zojila, Drass and Zanskar. The MeT advisory forecasts light rain and snow across Kargil and Zanskar on Sunday, with scattered precipitation likely in Leh. It also warned of possible landslides in vulnerable areas, particularly in the Kargil district.