Cloudburst in Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir: 7 Dead, Flash Floods and Rescue Operations Underway

A devastating cloudburst hit Kathua district in Jammu & Kashmir late Saturday night, August 16–17, 2025, triggering flash floods and landslides that claimed at least seven lives, including several minors. The disaster struck Jodh Ghati village in the Rajbagh area, washing away homes, damaging roads, and leaving many residents stranded.

According to officials, the sudden downpour caused the Ujh River and nearby streams to overflow, flooding low-lying areas. Several houses were buried under debris, while parts of the Jammu–Pathankot National Highway and railway tracks were severely affected, disrupting transport services.

Rescue teams from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, police, and local volunteers rushed to the spot. Helicopters were deployed to airlift the injured, and at least five to six people were hospitalized in Pathankot. Authorities have urged residents to avoid water bodies as water levels continue to rise.

Political leaders expressed grief over the tragedy. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha called the incident “heart-wrenching” and assured all possible support, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced an ex-gratia relief package for families of the deceased.

This incident comes just days after a cloudburst in Kishtwar district that killed more than 60 people, highlighting the growing threat of extreme weather events in the Himalayan region. Experts warn that changing climate patterns are making flash floods and cloudbursts more frequent in J&K, posing serious risks to vulnerable communities.