Srinagar, Jan 23, KNT: Strong and gusty winds swept across large parts of Jammu and Kashmir from Thursday evening, causing widespread damage to property, disrupting power supply and triggering alerts from authorities, officials and local reports said .
The windstorm affected central, north and south Kashmir as well as parts of the Jammu region, with people reporting uprooted trees, damaged rooftops and collapsed boundary walls. The intensity of the winds was described by locals as unusual for the month of January, with sudden gusts creating panic in several areas .
Almost every locality reported damage to shop signboards, with flex boards, hoardings and metal frames torn apart by strong winds. Tin-shed fencing and temporary structures of many houses were also damaged, while sheets and debris were seen scattered on roads and residential lanes. In several markets, shopkeepers were forced to secure their establishments late at night to prevent further losses.
The windstorm also led to massive disruption of electricity supply across the Kashmir Valley. Officials said a large portion of the power distribution network was affected after trees and branches fell on transmission lines and feeders developed faults. Restoration efforts were launched but continued gusty conditions slowed down repair work in several areas .
Reports from different districts indicated damage to houses, sheds and public infrastructure, while vehicles parked along roadsides were hit by falling debris in some localities. In Budgam district, an individual sustained injuries after coming into contact with a fallen live electric wire during the windstorm.
The Meteorological Department issued an alert, cautioning people against venturing outdoors unnecessarily and advising authorities to remain on high alert as strong winds continued through the night. Emergency teams and local administration were placed on standby to respond to incidents related to fallen trees, damaged structures and power outages.
Authorities have urged inhabitants to remain cautious, avoid moving close to weak structures, electric poles and dangling wires, and to report damage to concerned departments for timely assistance. [KNT]
