A massive cloudburst struck Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district on Thursday, August 14, 2025, resulting in a devastating tragedy. The natural disaster hit the Chositi area, particularly along the route of the Machail Mata Yatra, a pilgrimage to the Himalayan shrine of Mata Chandi, causing flash floods and widespread destruction.

As of the latest reports, the death toll has tragically climbed to 34, with over 120 people injured. Additionally, a significant number of people, approximately 220, are still missing. Among the deceased are two Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel who were on duty for the Yatra. The cloudburst has led to the suspension of the annual Machail Mata Yatra.

Rescue operations are underway, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, Army, and local volunteers working to search for survivors and evacuate those affected. The J&K administration has established a control room-cum-help desk in Paddar, near the affected area, to assist people and pilgrims.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his concern and grief over the incident, assuring that "every possible assistance" will be provided to those in need. In a post on X, he conveyed his thoughts and prayers to the affected and stated that the situation is being closely monitored. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also assured full support and stated that NDRF teams were immediately rushed to the site. Union Minister Jitendra Singh described the cloudburst as "massive" and warned of potentially "substantial casualties". He also mentioned that arrangements are being made for heli-rescue operations.

Local officials are struggling to cope with the scale of the disaster, which took everyone by surprise. The injured are being treated at Atholi hospital, with many being referred to District Hospital Kishtwar for more specialized care. The cloudburst has also caused damage to roads and infrastructure in Frislan and Batkoot.

Omar Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has canceled the Independence Day tea party and cultural events as a mark of respect for the victims of the Kishtwar cloudburst. Formal celebrations, however, will proceed as planned.

The current weather in Kishtwar is light rain, with a 75% chance of rain. The forecast for the next few days indicates continued rainfall, with a possibility of thunderstorms later in the week.