As the Meteorological Centre Srinagar has warned of changing weather conditions across Jammu and Kashmir with chances of heavy rainfall, flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas in the coming week, it becomes necessary for the people in J&K to stay cautious while taking all the preventive measures.
According to the weather forecast, J&K is expected to witness a major rain spell from July 18. This is likely to become intense from July 20 with several areas receiving heavy rainfall and brief spells of intense showers. The weather department has particularly cautioned people in Chenab Valley, Pir Panjal Range and some areas of Kashmir division, as heavy rains can trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides.
It is good that the advancement in science and technology has enabled the authorities to forecast such climatic changes well in advance giving an opportunity for taking timely steps to stay safe.
Taking preventive measures instead of facing avoidable risks is advisable especially when the concerned government agency has shared the information about inclement weather. The people across the Union Territory should recall the last year’s tragedies caused due to cloudbursts and heavy rain spells triggering flash floods, landslides and mudslides at several places leading to massive loss of life and property.
It is therefore advisable for all to stay at safe places during the upcoming wet spell as going near the swelled water bodies or other landslide prone areas can prove risky. People having their houses built on dangerous slopes of mountains and hills should also decide to move to safer locations on a temporary basis as the record of vagaries of weather in J&K is not so good and therefore risking lives is not at all a good idea.
Reportedly, the peak of the wet spell is anticipated on July 21 therefore people should not ignore this advisory rather this should be taken as an important warning with a potential to save lives and properties of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. Besides, the government should also take this advisory seriously and must come up with preparations by strengthening disaster management and keeping rescue teams ready to deal with any kind of emergency arising due to extreme weather conditions.
All said and done, people should avoid venturing near nallahs and streams, and stay alert for waterlogging in low-lying areas during the wet spell.
