Pahalgam Records Highest Rainfall In J&K After Cloudburst Triggers Flash Floods

Srinagar, July 12: Pahalgam recorded the highest rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir over the past 24 hours, receiving 42.6 mm of precipitation, according to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar. The intense rainfall, reportedly caused by a localised cloudburst, hit the forest areas of Awoora and Dehwathu on Saturday evening, triggering flash floods in a stream that later merged with the Lidder Nallah at Batkoot. The sudden surge of water inundated several hotels, while multiple hotel structures and residential houses were damaged in the affected areas. Following the heavy downpour, water levels in the Sheshnag Nallah and Lidder Nallah rose sharply. However, officials said both streams remained below their respective danger and alarm levels. Other areas in Kashmir also witnessed rainfall, with Sonamarg receiving 21 mm, Gulmarg 11.8 mm and Baramulla 5.5 mm during the same period. Most other parts of Jammu and Kashmir recorded light rainfall or remained dry. The Meteorological Department has forecast scattered light rain and thunderstorms across Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, with isolated areas likely to experience brief spells of intense showers. From July 13 to 17, weather conditions are expected to remain generally hot and humid, though some areas may receive short spells of rain and thunderstorms. The department has also predicted another spell of light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms across the Union Territory between July 18 and 20.