Srinagar, October 5, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir is bracing for a severe weather event as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts heavy rainfall, snowfall, and thunderstorms across the Union Territory from October 5 to 7, 2025. The inclement weather, driven by a potent Western Disturbance, is expected to bring significant disruptions, including potential landslides, road closures, and waterlogging in low-lying areas.The IMD predicts moderate to heavy rainfall in the plains of the Kashmir Valley, with light snow in mid-altitudes and heavy snowfall in higher reaches such as Anantnag, Pahalgam, Kulgam, Shopian, and passes like Zojila and Sinthan. In Jammu division, expect thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 60-70 km/h, with isolated areas facing very heavy rain. Major highways, including Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh, are at risk of closure due to landslides and shooting stones.Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has mobilized all administrative departments, prioritizing public safety and the protection of critical infrastructure, fruit crops, and essential services. Divisional Commissioners have deployed police, public works, health, and power development teams to monitor river levels, road conditions, and real-time weather updates.
Safety Guidelines Issued
The Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRRR) has rolled out urgent safety measures to minimize risks:
- Stay Indoors: Avoid outdoor activities during heavy rain, snow, or thunderstorms.
- Emergency Preparedness: Keep stocks of food, water, medicines, torches, and batteries.
- Travel Advisories: Limit travel, especially on landslide-prone or snow-covered routes; drive cautiously if necessary.
- Secure Property: Anchor rooftops, loose objects, and farm equipment; safeguard livestock.
- Protect Vulnerable Groups: Ensure the safety of children, elderly, and specially-abled individuals.
- Avoid Hazards: Steer clear of flooded rivers, downed power lines, and outdoor activities during high winds.
Farmers are advised to halt harvesting and agricultural activities until October 7 to protect crops. The public is urged to rely only on official IMD and DMRRR updates and avoid unverified social media reports.Emergency Response ActivatedThe Union Territory Emergency Operation Centre (UTEOC) in Srinagar is fully operational, with disaster response teams, police, and local administration on standby. Emergency helplines are active:
- General Emergency: 112
- Landlines: 0194-2502254, 0194-2950767
- Mobile: 7006067453, 9086131746
Residents are encouraged to report issues like waterlogging, fallen trees, or other hazards immediately. Pilgrimages, including Vaishno Devi and Machail Mata Yatra, have been suspended from October 5-7 to ensure devotee safety.A senior DMRRR official emphasized, “We are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared for rapid response. We urge residents to stay vigilant, follow guidelines, and cooperate with authorities.”