Transport disruptions likely; landslides, waterlogging, and thunderstorms expected; authorities activate emergency measures and helplines
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar: DD, The Jammu & Kashmir Emergency Relief Organization, under the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction, has issued a public advisory following a major weather alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Srinagar.
According to the advisory shared with the IMD has forecast that an active Western Disturbance will affect Jammu & Kashmir starting October 4, 2025. Widespread rainfall and snowfall over higher altitudes are expected between October 5 and 7, with the heaviest activity likely from the evening of October 5 through the afternoon of October 7.
The higher reaches likely to be impacted include Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Sinthan Pass, Shopian, Pir Ki Gali, Sonamarg-Zojila, Bandipora-Razdan Pass, Gulmarg, and Kupwara-Sadhna Pass. Middle altitude regions may witness light snowfall, while the Kashmir plains are expected to receive moderate to heavy rain. Jammu Division may experience isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds reaching 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60–70 kmph.
Authorities have warned that the adverse weather may disrupt surface transport, including the Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh highways, along with other key roads in middle and higher reaches.
Moderate to severe thunderstorms and lightning with gusty winds are expected at several locations. Vulnerable areas may see landslides, mudslides, and rockfalls. Farmers have been advised to halt all field operations from October 5 to 7.
Water levels in rivers, local streams, and nallas are expected to rise, with low-lying areas likely facing waterlogging. Travel and communications in high-altitude and snow-affected areas may also be affected.
Following the review, the administration has directed all frontline departments, disaster management teams, and emergency responders to keep men and machinery on high alert. Precautionary instructions have been circulated to ensure public safety.
Residents have been advised to remain indoors during heavy rain, snowfall, or thunderstorms and to keep emergency essentials, including water, food, medicines, blankets, batteries, and torches, ready. People have been asked to avoid non-essential travel and strictly follow instructions from local authorities.
The advisory cautions citizens not to enter flooded rivers, streams, or nallas, and to stay away from fallen electric wires or exposed electrical equipment. Travel on landslide-prone roads and high-altitude passes has also been discouraged.
People living in flood-prone or low-lying areas have been advised to evacuate if directed. Residents are urged to secure rooftops, loose objects, and farm equipment, and ensure the safety of vulnerable family members indoors. Regular updates from the IMD and disaster management authorities should be followed.
Additionally, citizens have been instructed to avoid moving livestock unnecessarily and to stay clear of avalanche-prone zones and blocked watercourses.
For emergency support, the public can contact helpline number 112, or the UT Emergency Operation Centre via landline numbers 0194-2502254 and 0194-2950767, or mobile numbers 7006067453 and 9086131746.
The advisory has been issued by the Chief Executive Officer of the Emergency Relief Organization, who also serves as the Nodal Officer of the UT Emergency Operation Centre, J&K. (KNC)
