Weather Warning Issued for Poonch and Rajouri Due to Rising Kishanganga River Levels

July 21, 2026

Jammu, July 21: A weather warning has been issued for Poonch and Rajouri districts in Jammu and Kashmir, as heavy rainfall poses a risk of damage over the next 48 hours. The Bandipora district administration has raised alerts due to rising water levels in the Kishanganga River.

The Meteorological Department reported that over 50 millimeters of rain has fallen in Poonch and Rajouri in the last three days. This has saturated the ground, significantly reducing its capacity to absorb more water. Consequently, water flow is expected to increase, diminishing slope stability, particularly in the higher regions of the districts. This raises the risk of landslides, mudslides, flash floods, slope collapses, and damage to infrastructure, especially near hilly areas and vulnerable roads.

Another major concern is the anticipated increase in rainfall from a ‘Western Disturbance’ expected in the next two days. As Poonch and Rajouri are located in the Pir Panjal range, they are often the first areas affected by such weather systems in Jammu and Kashmir.

Given the saturated soil, weakened slopes, and the likelihood of further rainfall, even light to moderate rain could trigger new incidents. Officials warn that the risk of weather-related disasters is highest in Poonch and Rajouri over the next 48 hours, urging residents to remain vigilant about rapidly changing conditions.

In light of the adverse weather and rising water levels in the Kishanganga River, the Guraz sub-divisional administration has advised all tourists and local tent colony owners to evacuate the riverbanks as a precaution.

This advisory was issued following consecutive incidents of cloudbursts in the villages of Zedgai in Tulail Valley and Achura in Guraz on Monday evening. This marks the third cloudburst incident in Bandipora district within the past week. Initial reports indicate that several homes and agricultural lands have been damaged due to these events.

Concerns are also rising over the potential for sudden floods and additional damage along riverbanks due to the abrupt increase in water flow.

Authorities are urging local residents and tourists to stay away from rivers, streams, and high-risk areas, and to strictly adhere to official advisories. Teams are being deployed to assess the situation and evaluate any damage.