Severe floods inundated Jammu in Indian-administered Kashmir on Tuesday, as heavy monsoon rains wreaked havoc in the Himalayan region, destroying bridges and flooding homes, according to Indian media.
The Press Trust of India (PTI) reported that a landslide in Reasi district resulted in five fatalities, citing local officials.
Videos released by PTI showed torrents of muddy water crashing into bridges and submerging Hindu temples.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced he would take the “next available flight” to Jammu, describing the situation in parts of the province as “quite serious” in a statement.
PTI also noted that phone lines were disrupted.
AFP could not immediately reach officials to verify the full extent of the flood damage.
Floods and landslides are frequent during the monsoon season from June to September, but experts warn that climate change and poor urban planning are exacerbating their frequency and impact.
On August 5, floods devastated the Himalayan town of Dharali in Uttarakhand, India, burying it in mud. The death toll is expected to exceed 70, though it remains unconfirmed.
On August 14, intense rain-driven torrents hit Chisoti village in Indian-administered Kashmir, leading to at least 60 deaths.
