Srinagar, Sep 3 The Meteorological Department on Wednesday said that rainfall intensity across Kashmir has diminished after an intense spell overnight, easing fears of an immediate flood. However, the department cautioned that the final assessment of water levels in the Jhelum will only be possible after several hours.
Director Meteorological Department, Mukhtar Ahmad, while talking to the news agency Kashmir News Trust, said that it would be premature to predict the situation in Srinagar just yet. “The waters from Sangam will take at least five to six hours to reach Srinagar. Only afterwards can we say what the actual level of water in the Jhelum will be,” he said.
He said that the scale of rainfall, which was high during the night and throughout the day, has since weakened even in upper reaches such as Shopian, Pahalgam, Sinthan Top and Murgan Top. “Even if the showers continue with low intensity, they will not pose any immediate threat of flood,” Mukhtar Ahmad said.
Responding to concerns about a new cluster of clouds moving towards South Kashmir, the MET Director explained that areas in the higher reaches are already witnessing showers, but of mild intensity. He added that the fresh cloud cluster is likely to impact the Chenab Valley in areas like Doda, Kishtwar and Bhaderwah more significantly.
He added that the next 5 to 5 hours are crucial to assess the Jhelum’s behaviour as inflow from Sangam gradually reaches Srinagar.
Meanwhile, the administration has kept flood control rooms on alert, while people in vulnerable areas have been advised to stay updated with official advisories.
The MET Department maintained that while the situation is under watch, the diminished rainfall intensity is a positive sign. [KNT]
