The skies have unleashed chaos in Jammu and Kashmir. Ramban has suffered massive destruction due to a cloudburst, resulting in reports of three fatalities and over 100 people rescued so far. Torrential rains from Ramban to Kishtwar and Doda have brought the region to a standstill. Landslides have hurled rocks from the hills, and debris has surged towards towns and cities, leaving no time to react. The Jammu-Srinagar Highway has been buried under landslides in several areas.
Thunderstorm and Rain Alert for Today
Source: aajtak
A flash flood wreaked havoc in Ramban, submerging the city. The chaos includes water, debris, and mud, with more than 30 homes damaged and vehicles trapped in silt. Partial cloud cover persists in Jammu today (April 21), with the potential for rain, thunderstorms, or dusty winds. By April 22, the sky should clear, although clouds may return by evening or night. No weather alerts have been issued by the authorities.
Traffic Suspended on Jammu-Srinagar Highway
The 250-kilometer Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is closed, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded. This highway is the only road link connecting Kashmir to the rest of the country. Officials reported blockages caused by debris at about a dozen places between Nashri and Banihal.
Source: aajtak
Closure of Schools and Colleges
In response to the adverse weather conditions, all government and private schools, colleges, and technical institutes in Ramban district are closed today, April 21. An official stated that due to heavy rainfall, all schools in Kashmir will remain shut today. Education Minister Sakina Itoo announced on April 20, "Given the ongoing severe weather conditions and forecasts, all schools in the valley will suspend classes for a day on April 21. This precautionary step is to ensure the safety and well-being of all students."