Kashmir cloudbursts surge as monsoon meets western disturbances, killing 31

Intense cloudbursts and short‑duration downpours have battered Jammu and Kashmir this summer as moisture‑laden southwest monsoon winds interact with weak western disturbances. The Meteorological Department recorded more than 35 cloudbursts this year, with 15–16 occurring within two weeks of the monsoon onset, an unusually high frequency. The deadliest event on July 19 caused flash floods and landslides in Poonch and Rajouri, killing over 25 people; overall fatalities have risen to at least 31.

Districts such as Pahalgam, Shopian, Bandipora, Gurez, Lolab, Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Samba and Kathua have seen roads, bridges, homes and farmland damaged. Met Department Director Mukhtar Ahmad warned that rising temperatures increase atmospheric moisture, making extreme rainfall more likely, while climatologist Sonam Lotus highlighted the orographic effect of the Himalayas in concentrating rainfall. Experts say human activities—river‑bank construction, deforestation and unplanned development—exacerbate the impact of these cloudbursts.