Srinagar: Authorities have issued a critical flood alert after water levels in major rivers surged alarmingly in parts of Jammu region.
The Tawi river in Udhampur swelled nearly eight feet in just 90 minutes, crossing the evacuation mark of 23.4 ft and touching 24.97 ft, officials confirmed.
According to latest assessments, it generally takes 4–6 hours for the flow to reach Jammu city, where the river is expected to cross the danger mark and may even approach the evacuation level within the next five hours. Residents have been urged to stay vigilant and prepared for any necessary action.
Meanwhile, the Chenab river at Akhnoor breached the danger mark late Monday night, flowing at 36.5 ft, well above the 35 ft danger level, while the evacuation threshold is 42 ft. Earlier, the river had crossed the flood alert level at 34 ft around 11 p.m.
In Reasi and adjoining Ramban areas, thunder cells developed around midnight, raising the risk of intense showers and even cloudbursts, weather experts warned.
Authorities have advised people in low-lying and vulnerable areas to remain on high alert as the situation remains critical.
