July 7, 2025, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir – Heavy rainfall lashed parts of Srinagar, including the iconic Lal Chowk, bringing much-needed relief from the recent heatwave but causing significant disruptions due to waterlogging and traffic chaos. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecasted light to moderate rain with the possibility of intense showers, which materialized on Monday, impacting daily life in the city.
Visuals from Lal Chowk, a bustling commercial hub, showed waterlogged streets and commuters navigating through ankle-deep water. The intensity of the downpour, with some users sharing videos of a hailstorm accompanying the heavy rain in areas like Natipora and Chanpora. The sudden weather shift brought respite from the scorching heat, with Srinagar having recorded its highest day temperature in over seven decades at 37.4°C on Saturday.
According to reports, the heavy rainfall led to a rise in water levels in nearby rivers, such as the Dharhali and Saktoh in Rajouri district, raising concerns about potential flash floods in vulnerable areas. The IMD’s nowcast update had warned of intense showers in parts of Srinagar and other districts like Kupwara, Baramulla, and Ganderbal, with risks of landslides and mudslides.
Local authorities are on alert, with efforts underway to manage waterlogging and restore normalcy. The monsoon’s impact has been felt across Jammu & Kashmir, with similar weather conditions reported in other regions, causing road blockages and disruptions in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay updated with weather alerts as the IMD predicts continued rainfall over the next few days.
