Torrential rain wreaks havoc in Jammu and Kashmir; flash floods, landslides hit Ramban hardest as 30 houses are washed away. Schools closed as a safety measure in Kashmir.
Jammu & Kashmir Weather Crisis: April 21, 2025
Severe torrential rains lashed several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, leading to deadly landslides and flash floods. The Ramban district emerged as the epicenter of the disaster, where three people lost their lives after their homes were swept away in a massive landslide in Bagna village.
More than 30 houses were destroyed, and numerous vehicles were buried under debris. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), a vital lifeline, remains blocked at multiple points.
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🚨 Key Developments:
- Three Killed in Ramban: Homes in Bagna village were completely destroyed.
- Highway Blocked: NH-44 blocked from both ends due to landslides.
- Schools Closed in Kashmir: J&K Education Minister Sakina Itoo ordered all schools in the valley to remain shut today (April 21) for student safety.
- Massive Rescue Ops: Teams from SDRF, Army, Police, and local volunteers continue rescue efforts.
- Death Toll Rises: Two more people died in Reasi district on Saturday after being struck by lightning—bringing the rain-related death toll in Jammu region to five in two days.
- Cloudburst Unconfirmed: IMD said the rainfall was “very heavy” but did not confirm a cloudburst due to lack of instruments in hilly terrain.
Also Read: ✈️ Delhi Airport Chaos: 68% Flights Delayed Amid Poor Planning, Runway Closure
🗣️ Official Statements:
- CM Omar Abdullah: “In touch with the local administration; restoration and relief efforts are being reviewed today.”
- Union MoS Jitendra Singh: “Commendable efforts by DC Baseer Haq and the Indian Army for timely assistance to residents.”
⚠️ Affected Areas:
Ramban, Banihal, Khari, Batote, Dharamkund, Seri, Bagna, Chamba, Reasi (Arnas region)
🧭 Outlook:
The India Meteorological Department had earlier warned of a Western Disturbance impacting the Western Himalayas from April 18–20. With more unstable weather patterns expected, authorities remain on high alert.
🏷️ Tags:
Jammu and Kashmir weather, Ramban landslide, J&K schools closed, flash floods, NH44 blocked, IMD weather alert, Omar Abdullah, Jitendra Singh, Jammu region rains, Reasi lightning deaths