Heavy rains trigger flash floods in Jammu-Kashmir; 11 dead, several missing
Babushahi Bureau
Jammu (J-K), July 19, 2026: At least 11 people have lost their lives and several others remain missing after torrential rains triggered flash floods and widespread devastation across parts of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Sunday.
Continuous heavy rainfall between Saturday and Sunday created flood-like conditions in the Rajouri and Poonch districts, inundating low-lying areas and causing extensive damage to homes, vehicles and public infrastructure.
The rising water level of the Darhali River submerged several residential localities in Rajouri district, forcing residents to move to safer areas. Police and disaster response teams are conducting search operations to trace those reported missing.
According to reports, dozens of vehicles parked at a parking stand in Rajouri were swept away by the strong currents, while several houses suffered significant damage due to flooding.
The heavy rainfall has also caused substantial financial losses to residents, with authorities assessing the extent of the damage.
Amid the worsening weather situation, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced that he would cut short his stay in Delhi and return to Jammu to personally oversee relief and rescue operations.
"In light of the weather warning issued by the Meteorological Department and the seriousness of the situation unfolding across parts of Jammu division, I will leave Delhi to fly to Jammu this afternoon to personally monitor the situation on the ground," Abdullah said in a post on X.
Authorities have urged people living in vulnerable and low-lying areas to remain alert and follow official advisories as rescue and relief operations continue.