Jammu, Aug 23: Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday issued a series of precautionary advisories in response to the Indian Meteorological Department’s forecast of heavy rainfall over the next four days, warning of potential cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides, and mudslides across vulnerable areas of the Union Territory.
Deputy Commissioners of Jammu, Ramban, and Kishtwar issued separate advisories urging residents to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and refrain from venturing close to riverbanks, nallahs, flood-prone or waterlogged areas. Citizens have been advised to keep essential supplies ready, follow official weather updates closely, and prioritize both personal and community safety.
In particular, residents living in low-lying or landslide-prone zones have been urged to identify safer locations in advance and coordinate with local authorities for timely evacuation if needed. People have been explicitly cautioned against approaching unstable slopes, fast-flowing streams, or areas with a history of flash floods.
An official spokesperson said that all government departments have been placed on high alert, with instructions for field staff to remain at their headquarters and be prepared to provide immediate assistance. Tehsildars across the UT have been directed to report without delay any damage to life or property resulting from the prevailing weather conditions.
The advisories come in the wake of a weather bulletin issued by the Srinagar centre of the IMD, which has predicted a high likelihood of intense rainfall and related natural hazards between August 23 and 27.
The general public has been provided with emergency contact numbers, including Police Control Rooms, district-level control rooms, and the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS), to seek assistance in case of exigencies.
Authorities emphasized that proactive cooperation, preparedness, and vigilance by both the administration and citizens are vital to minimize risks and safeguard lives during this period of heightened weather vulnerability.