Torrential Rains Continue Across North India
Heavy rainfall continued to lash parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Uttarakhand on Wednesday, triggering floods, landslides and school closures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts in these states, warning of extremely heavy rainfall that may cause disruption to transport and daily life.
According to IMD’s latest bulletin, rainfall activity is expected to remain intense through the first week of September. Rivers and streams are already swelling, raising fears of flash floods. Meanwhile, in the Delhi-NCR region, the weather department has downgraded the warning from orange to yellow, predicting only light rainfall.
Jammu and Kashmir on High Alert
The situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains critical, with continuous rains reported from Bhalesa and Doda for the second straight day. The rising water levels forced the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, a key lifeline for trade and travel.
The IMD has placed the union territory under red alert, urging residents to stay cautious. In view of the worsening conditions, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir ordered closure of all schools across the Valley on Wednesday to ensure student safety.
Himachal Pradesh Battles Landslides and Floods
In Himachal Pradesh, heavy rains have triggered multiple landslides and flash floods across hilly districts. A red alert has been issued for Chamba, Kangra and Kullu, while Shimla, Solan, Sirmour, Mandi, Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti remain under orange alert.
Officials have advised residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel, especially near landslide-prone areas. Rescue teams have been placed on standby as the hill state continues to grapple with recurring natural disasters this monsoon season.
Punjab Declares “Zero Week” Amid Flood Warnings
Punjab is also under severe stress as the IMD issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib, Rupnagar and Nawashahr. Other districts, including Chandigarh, remain under an orange alert.
In response, the University of Punjab has announced a “zero week” from September 1 to 7. During this period, classes will remain suspended for students and staff. Faculty members will use the time to complete admissions, hostel allotments and orientation activities. Regular classes are scheduled to resume from September 8.
Uttarakhand Braces for Extreme Rainfall
The hill state of Uttarakhand is also under a red alert for heavy rainfall. The IMD has warned of possible cloudbursts and flash floods in several districts. Disaster response teams are monitoring the situation closely as fragile slopes raise the risk of landslides.
Authorities have urged people in vulnerable areas to remain indoors and avoid venturing near rivers and streams. With the state already witnessing recurring weather-related calamities this monsoon, the fresh warning has heightened concerns.
Delhi-NCR Sees Downgraded Warning
Meanwhile, Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad saw a shift in weather alerts. The IMD downgraded the forecast, with no warnings in place until late morning on Wednesday. Areas such as New Delhi, East Delhi, Shahdara, North West Delhi, West Delhi and South West Delhi remain on yellow alert for light rainfall.
However, Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad are still expected to see heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning later in the day, according to the IMD’s Lucknow centre.
Outlook for September
With the monsoon showing no signs of retreat, experts warn that September could bring more extreme weather events. Landslides, flash floods and cloudbursts remain a threat across northern states. Residents are advised to monitor IMD updates regularly and follow safety advisories issued by local authorities.
The latest developments highlight the urgent need for disaster preparedness, improved infrastructure and better flood management systems across vulnerable regions of India.