Severe Weather Disrupts Life as Heavy Rainfall and Hailstorms Batter Srinagar

Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir – June 1, 2025:
Heavy rainfall in Srinagar accompanied by intense hailstorms wreaked havoc across the city on Saturday, leading to widespread disruption in daily life. The unexpected weather event brought traffic to a halt, damaged crops, and flooded low-lying areas, raising concerns among residents and city officials alike.

The sudden downpour began early in the afternoon and continued for several hours, overwhelming the city’s drainage systems and creating waterlogging in key parts of the city including Lal Chowk, Bemina, and Rajbagh. The Meteorological Department had forecast showers, but the intensity of heavy rainfall in Srinagar caught many by surprise.

Hailstorms and Flooding Impact City Infrastructure

Residents reported loud hailstones pounding rooftops and windows, some as large as marbles. Vehicles and two-wheelers were seen stuck in waterlogged streets, with commuters struggling to navigate through flooded intersections. Visuals from different parts of the city showed trees uprooted and several roads submerged under several inches of water.

“Never have we seen such heavy rainfall in Srinagar combined with hailstorms in June,” said Irfan Ahmad, a local shopkeeper in Downtown Srinagar. “Our shop roofs were battered by hail, and water seeped inside despite all precautions.”

Municipal authorities were quick to deploy pumps and emergency response teams in affected zones, but the sheer volume of water caused delays. Public transport was suspended temporarily in certain sectors due to poor visibility and slippery roads.

Heavy Rainfall in Srinagar Damages Crops and Gardens

The heavy rainfall in Srinagar has also impacted agricultural areas on the outskirts of the city. Farmers in Budgam, Ganderbal, and Anantnag districts reported damage to standing crops, especially vegetables and seasonal fruits, which were nearing harvest. The hailstorms shredded leaves and bruised produce, potentially affecting supply chains in the coming days.

“Apple orchards in particular have suffered superficial damage,” said an official from the horticulture department. “We will conduct detailed assessments once the weather clears.”

Administration Issues Safety Advisory

In light of the ongoing weather pattern, the Jammu & Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has urged citizens to stay indoors during stormy periods and avoid unnecessary travel. The administration is closely monitoring the situation and has advised schools and institutions to remain cautious.

Emergency helplines have been activated, and medical teams are on standby in vulnerable zones. The Srinagar Municipal Corporation is also assessing areas with persistent drainage issues for long-term solutions.

Climate Experts Raise Concerns Over Extreme Weather Trends

Climate specialists note that the occurrence of such heavy rainfall in Srinagar during early June is unusual and could be linked to changing climate patterns. “This kind of extreme precipitation event is becoming more frequent in the Himalayan belt,” said Dr. Farhat Qadri, a climate researcher based in Srinagar. “Urban planning must evolve to accommodate these shifts.”

The impact of this heavy rainfall in Srinagar serves as a reminder of the need for improved drainage systems and early warning infrastructure to mitigate damage from future weather-related events.

Citizens Urged to Stay Alert Amid Forecasts of More Rain

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued precipitation in Srinagar and surrounding areas for the next 48 hours. Authorities have recommended that citizens stay informed through official channels and avoid venturing into flood-prone areas.

With more rainfall expected, city officials are on high alert. Restoration efforts are underway, with priority given to reopening main roads, clearing debris, and assisting affected families.

Conclusion

The recent bout of heavy rainfall in Srinagar, combined with hailstorms, has disrupted the rhythm of life in the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir. From damaged crops to flooded streets, the event highlights vulnerabilities in urban infrastructure and the increasing unpredictability of regional weather patterns.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant, follow advisories, and prioritize safety as the city recovers from this extreme weather event.