JAMMU, 19August, 2025: Schools remained shut for the second consecutive day on Tuesday across the Jammu division due to inclement weather, officials said. Heavy rainfall has lashed several districts, triggering flash floods in rivers and landslides that have obstructed numerous roads. The decision to keep schools closed was made in view of the ongoing adverse weather conditions and prioritises the safety of students.The Directorate of School Education, Jammu, issued an order stating, “In view of the inclement and bad weather conditions, it is hereby ordered that all government as well as private schools of Jammu Division shall continue to remain closed till tomorrow, i.e., 19.08.2025.”
This follows a similar closure on Monday, August 18, prompted by warnings from the Meteorological Department of heavy rains and thundershowers across ten districts, including Jammu, Reasi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, Samba, Kathua, Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban. The region has been severely impacted by recent weather events. Since last week, three separate cloudbursts in Chisoti village of Kishtwar district and Jodh Ghati and Janglote areas of Kathua district have resulted in 71 deaths and 122 injuries. In Kathua, a cloudburst on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday caused flash floods and landslides, damaging a railway track, the national highway, and a local police station. Rescue operations have intensified, with the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) working alongside local administration to evacuate stranded individuals and provide relief.The Meteorological Department has forecasted continued heavy rainfall and thunderstorms through August 19, raising concerns about further cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides in vulnerable areas. Authorities have urged residents to avoid water bodies and unstable structures and to stay updated on weather advisories. Jammu and Kashmir Congress President Tariq Hameed Karra described the situation as “very tragic,” highlighting gaps in preventive measures and rescue operations, particularly in Kishtwar and Kathua.
Efforts are underway to restore essential services, with Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar reporting progress in clearing debris and restoring power and water supply in affected areas. The central government, led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, has assured full support, with ongoing coordination between local administration and national agencies to manage the crisis.
