Cloudburst In Jammu & Kashmir Triggers Havoc; Here's What Travellers Must Know

Travellers planning to visit Jammu and Kashmir are advised to exercise extreme caution in light of recent severe weather events in the region. A devastating cloudburst struck Seri Bagna village in Ramban district, claiming at least three lives. Rescue operations are currently underway as officials continue to search for survivors amid ongoing rainfall.According to the Press Trust of India (PTI), this incident follows a series of rain-related disasters across the Jammu region, which have now resulted in five fatalities over the past 48 hours. On Saturday night, two more people, including a woman, lost their lives after a lightning strike in Reasi district’s Arnas area.The heavy rains have triggered flash floods in Dharam Kund village, damaging over 40 houses, with ten completely destroyed. Despite repeated cloudbursts, local police and rescue teams have successfully evacuated more than 100 residents. Several vehicles have also been swept away by surging waters, amplifying the scale of destruction.District officials report widespread damage across Ramban and surrounding regions due to hailstorms, landslides, and continuous rain. Relief and damage assessment operations are ongoing, with safeguarding human lives remaining the top priority.How This Kashmir Entrepreneur Is Healing His Homeland Through Regenerative TourismCloudburst In Jammu & Kashmir: Vast Areas Damaged The extreme weather has forced the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), the region’s crucial all-weather route. Landslides, mudslides, and falling rocks, particularly near the Nashri-Banihal stretch, have rendered large parts of the 250-kilometre highway inaccessible. A portion of the road near Panthiyal has also been washed away.Authorities have confirmed that all stranded travellers have been safely relocated. However, the traffic department has strongly advised against any non-essential travel along this route until further notice. Heavy snowfall has led to the closure of the Srinagar-Leh highway, with the Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh route and the Shinkula Pass on the Padum-Leh route both blocked. Additionally, all flights to Leh have been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. Authorities have advised people to avoid travel on the Leh highway, as it may take several days for the route to become operational again. The Khardung La Pass has also been closed for the day.Travellers are urged to stay updated with real-time information and contact the toll-free helpline (1800-890-8457) for assistance and safety updates.