Scattered showers likely over next two days; rivers to remain swollen but situation improving

NewsEye Desk

Srinagar, Jul 22: The threat of major flooding in Kashmir has largely been averted as rainfall activity has eased across Jammu and Kashmir, independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif said on Wednesday.

In a weather update issued this afternoon, Arif said rainfall has reduced significantly across most parts of the Union Territory, although a few places may continue to receive brief showers till the evening.

“A lull in weather activity is now expected, especially across South Kashmir, where no major rainfall is anticipated. This break is likely to continue at least until midnight,” he said.

He said scattered showers are likely over the next two days, but these are not expected to be prolonged, day-long spells of heavy rainfall.

“I believe it is now safe to assume that the threat of any major flooding has largely been averted. River water levels may remain elevated until tomorrow or even the day after, but no significant flood threat is expected, provided there is no breach of embankments (bunds),” Arif said.

The improvement comes after widespread heavy rainfall over the past two days triggered flash floods, landslides and a sharp rise in water levels across several rivers and streams in Kashmir, prompting authorities to issue flood advisories and suspend classwork in schools as a precaution.

Meanwhile, the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department has also said there is no need to panic as the Jhelum and its major tributaries are flowing well below the warning and danger levels, while the situation is being monitored round the clock.

Arif, however, advised people to remain cautious as rivers may continue to carry high flows for the next 24 to 48 hours despite the improvement in weather conditions. (NewsEye)