Islamabad 5 August: A sudden and severe wind squall struck Srinagar this afternoon, causing widespread disruption across the city for approximately 30 minutes.
The intense weather event, characterized by sustained high winds, left a trail of damage in central areas, particularly around Dal Lake, according to local reports and eyewitness accounts.
The squall, described as a sharp spike in wind speed, uprooted trees, damaged electrical lines, and disrupted vehicle traffic along major roads. Live video footage circulating on platforms like YouTube and local news outlets, including Greater Kashmir and Rising Kashmir, captured swirling dust, debris, and chaotic conditions in neighborhoods such as Boulevard Road and Lal Chowk. Residents reported overturned street vendors’ carts, scattered debris, and temporary power outages in affected areas.
A squall, as defined by meteorologists, is a brief but intense period of sustained high winds, often linked to thunderstorms or fast-moving weather fronts, distinct from fleeting gusts. While no official wind speed data was immediately available from the Srinagar International Airport weather station, posts on X noted significant air activity over the city during the same timeframe, raising concerns among locals. Some speculated the winds may have been amplified by regional weather patterns, though no official confirmation linked the event to a specific system like a thunderstorm or low-pressure front.
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The damage, while disruptive, appeared localized, with no immediate reports of injuries or fatalities. Authorities are assessing the impact, and repair crews have been dispatched to restore power and clear debris from roads. The India Meteorological Department has not yet issued a detailed statement, but residents are urged to stay cautious as cleanup efforts continue.
This sudden squall underscores the unpredictable nature of weather in the Kashmir Valley, where rapid changes can catch communities off guard. Further updates on damage assessments and weather forecasts are expected in the coming hours.
