Cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua Kills Seven People
A deadly cloudburst struck a remote village in the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of at least seven people. The incident, which occurred overnight amid heavy rains, caused significant damage to property and infrastructure in the Jod Ghati area of Rajbagh, cutting off the village. Joint teams from the police and the State Disaster Response Force have been dispatched to conduct rescue operations. The severe weather has also caused landslides in nearby areas and raised river levels to dangerous heights.
Unpacked:
A cloudburst is an extreme rainfall event where a large amount of rain falls in a short time, often within an hour. In mountainous areas like Jammu and Kashmir, steep slopes and narrow valleys amplify flooding and landslides, leading to severe damage and loss of life.
Cloudbursts and flash floods have become more frequent in Jammu and Kashmir, with several incidents reported in recent years. Studies indicate that their frequency is increasing across the Western Himalayas due to climate change and unplanned development.
Rescue teams are hindered by damaged infrastructure, landslides, and high river levels, which cut off access to remote villages like Jod Ghati. Difficult terrain, unstable weather, and blocked roads make reaching and evacuating survivors challenging.
Authorities are urging people to avoid water bodies during heavy rains and are improving early warning systems. Efforts include strengthening disaster response, planning safer settlements, and educating communities on emergency preparedness, though challenges remain due to geography and limited resources.