Srinagar, along with other parts of Kashmir, is grappling with the aftermath of heavy rainfall that triggered significant waterlogging and traffic disruptions on Monday, September 1, 2025. The downpour, accompanied by thunderstorms, inundated key areas of the city, causing considerable inconvenience to commuters and business owners.
Several areas in Srinagar, including Residency Road, TRC Chowk, and Dal Gate, experienced the worst of the waterlogging, making it difficult for vehicles to navigate the flooded streets. The meteorological department has predicted that the heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds are likely to continue in Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Budgam.
In light of the ongoing weather conditions, authorities have issued advisories urging residents to take necessary precautions. People are advised to stay away from electric poles, old trees, and unstable structures to minimize the risk of accidents. Additionally, all boating activities, including shikara rides on Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake, have been temporarily suspended to ensure the safety of tourists and locals. Sand miners in the Jhelum River and other water bodies have also been asked to verify the condition of the river and its tributaries before crossing.
While the water levels in the Jhelum River and other water bodies remain below the danger mark, there is a warning of moderate to heavy rainfall in Anantnag and Kulgam between Tuesday and Wednesday. A potential cloudburst has already led to rising water levels in the Akad stream in Pahalgam, prompting caution.
The heavy rainfall has evoked concerns among Srinagar residents, bringing back memories of the devastating 2014 floods. The 2014 floods caused widespread damage and disruption, with the Jhelum River in Srinagar flowing at 22.40 feet, which was 4.40 feet above the danger mark.
The Meteorological Department has issued a fresh advisory, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall across several districts until September 3, raising the risk of flash floods, cloudbursts, and landslides in vulnerable areas. Isolated showers are expected in parts of the region, followed by intense rainfall over sections of the Jammu division.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit flood-affected areas in Jammu and Kashmir to assess the damage and interact with victim families. Over 150 people have lost their lives in cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall over the past fortnight. Infrastructure, including bridges, roads, and residential houses, has suffered extensive damage.