Relentless Rains Put Jammu & Kashmir on High Alert, Schools Closed in Three Districts

Srinagar, July 19, 2026 Persistent monsoon showers have intensified the weather situation across Jammu and Kashmir, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures as flash floods and landslides threaten several regions. The impact has been particularly severe in the Pir Panjal belt, where heavy rainfall has disrupted daily life and raised concerns over public safety. In response, all government and private educational institutions in Rajouri, Poonch, and Reasi remained closed on Tuesday. “In view of adverse weather conditions, all government and private schools in Rajouri district will remain closed today,” a communique from the District Magistrate, Rajouri, reads. Continuous rainfall has swollen the Dharhali and Saktoh rivers, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas. The administration also stepped up safety measures after a five-year-old student lost their life in a landslide in Bainch Kalsan, Poonch, while a pilgrim was killed after a landslide struck the old Vaishno Devi track in Katra on Monday. In Samba, residents were advised to avoid landslide-prone roads and stay away from overflowing nallahs and rivulets, while schools operating from unsafe buildings were asked to suspend classes. The ongoing wet spell has also triggered flash floods in streams and rivers across Poonch, Mendhar, and Rajouri, with officials warning of fresh landslides in vulnerable locations. The Meteorological Department issued weather alerts for north, central, and south Kashmir, along with Banihal, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur, Kathua, Doda, and Kishtwar, cautioning about the possibility of flash floods, landslides, and mudslides. The advisory also urged the suspension of shikara rides and boating on Dal Lake and Wular Lake on Tuesday afternoon due to the likelihood of intense rainfall and gusty winds. With disaster response teams placed on alert, authorities continue to monitor the evolving weather conditions across the Union Territory. The Meteorological Department has forecast intermittent spells of light to moderate rain, accompanied by gusty winds and isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall, until July 24. As the monsoon remains active, officials have urged residents to stay vigilant and follow all safety advisories issued by the administration.