Could Jammu and Kashmir Be Prepared for Thunderstorms and Flash Floods?
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Synopsis
Jammu and Kashmir is facing a serious weather crisis with authorities declaring a red alert for thunderstorms, flash floods, and landslides. As the region prepares for significant rainfall, residents are advised to stay vigilant and away from vulnerable areas. Learn more about the precautions being taken to safeguard the community in this timely report.
Key Takeaways
- Red alert issued for Jammu and Kashmir due to severe weather.
- Heavy rainfall expected to lead to flash floods and landslides.
- Authorities are urging residents to stay away from vulnerable areas.
- Helplines and control rooms established for public safety.
- Safety audit deemed Government Hospital in Gandhinagar unsafe.
Srinagar, Sep 2 (NationPress) A red alert has been issued as Jammu and Kashmir braces for another round of significant rainfall, prompting authorities to prepare for potential emergencies.
The officials from the Meteorological (MeT) Department noted that over the next 48 hours, the region is expected to experience widespread heavy rainfall, causing rivers, streams, and seasonal nallahs to rise.
“Thunderstorms, flash floods, and landslides may occur in susceptible areas during this time. The weather forecast indicates that today and tomorrow will be predominantly cloudy, with intermittent light to moderate rain and thunderstorms across many locations. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated particularly in Jammu, Kathua, Udhampur, and Reasi districts, along with moderate to heavy rainfall expected in Doda, Samba, Rajouri, Poonch, Kishtwar, Ramban in the Jammu division, and Anantnag and Kulgam in the Valley. Rain is forecasted mainly late tonight into early tomorrow and continuing until late afternoon,” the MeT officials stated.
In light of the unfavorable weather forecast, authorities have established a red alert in J&K for the upcoming 48 hours.
Residents are urged to keep away from water bodies, nallahs, and unstable structures, as the risk of cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and falling rocks persists in vulnerable areas.
District administrations have established helplines and control rooms staffed with officials available around the clock.
Meanwhile, a recent safety evaluation has deemed the 65-year-old Government Hospital building in Gandhinagar, Jammu, as unsafe.
Patients and their belongings from B Block of the hospital have been relocated to the nearby 200-bedded Maternity and Child Health (MCH) Hospital in Gandhinagar.
This decision was made to ensure the safety of patients, their companions, medical staff, and administrative personnel, as the hospital serves thousands daily.
The Gandhi Nagar Government Hospital is an essential healthcare provider in Jammu, catering to both urban and rural populations, with 200 sanctioned beds (160 operational) and managing approximately 1,300 to 1,400 patients each day.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the seriousness of the impending weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir. The government's proactive approach by issuing a red alert is commendable as it emphasizes the safety of residents. It's essential for the community to remain vigilant and follow guidelines to mitigate risks during this challenging time.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What precautions should residents take during the red alert?
Residents should avoid water bodies, unstable structures, and follow local advisories to ensure their safety.
How long is the red alert expected to last?
The red alert is in effect for the next 48 hours due to anticipated severe weather conditions.
What areas are most affected by the forecasted weather?
Jammu, Kathua, Udhampur, and Reasi districts are among the most affected areas, along with several others in the region.
