Cloudburst Triggers Flash Flood in J&K’s Rajouri, Four Dead; Houses and Infrastructure Washed Away

A powerful cloudburst triggered a devastating flash flood in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, leaving at least four people dead and causing extensive damage to houses, roads, vehicles and other infrastructure.

The cloudburst reportedly occurred on July 19 at multiple locations in the hilly Rajdhani area of Thanamandi subdivision. Local residents said the sudden surge of water through the area’s nallahs caused widespread destruction. (Republic World)

Houses, Roads Washed Away

The impact was particularly severe in Rajdhani Panchayat, where roads and agricultural land were damaged and several landslides were reported.

The main bus stand was washed away, while several vehicles were swept away by the floodwaters. Residential properties were also damaged, with at least one house occupied by a family of six completely washed away. The displaced family reportedly took shelter in a government school. (Republic World)

Residents Recall Terrifying Night

Residents described the flood as an unusually intense event. One affected resident told ANI that the family was inside their house when they heard the sound of the swollen river and rolling boulders before the floodwaters reached the property.

The resident said the family managed to escape, but the house was completely destroyed. (Republic World)

Four People Killed

The disaster claimed four lives, making the July 19 incident one of the more destructive weather-related events reported in the Rajouri district in recent times.

The flooding also damaged public infrastructure, vehicles, agricultural land and roads across affected areas. (Republic World)

Heavy Rain Threat Continues

Residents in the higher reaches remain concerned about the possibility of further heavy rainfall, flash floods and landslides. The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of Jammu and Kashmir's mountainous areas to sudden extreme-weather events.

The Rajouri incident comes amid repeated episodes of intense rainfall and flash flooding across parts of Jammu and Kashmir during this year's monsoon season. (The Economic Times)