Jammu storm: high winds, rain and hail bring heatwave relief and power damage

Strong winds, rain and hail swept Jammu and nearby districts on Thursday evening, bringing relief from heatwave temperatures but causing disruption. Officials reported an electric transformer and multiple poles falling onto a road, narrowly missing a two-wheeler rider. The Meteorological Department recorded gusts up to 89 kmph and notable rainfall across the region.

High-speed winds and rain battered Jammu on Thursday evening, bringing down an electric transformer and several poles in the Channi area. The fallen equipment landed on a road and almost struck a two-wheeler carrying two people, officials said. The sharp weather shift also lowered temperatures across the region and eased heatwave conditions.

Officials said the scooter suffered some damage, but the pillion rider was not hurt. A bigger disaster was avoided because the transformer power supply had already been switched off. Authorities also reported minor damage to local infrastructure, including trees that fell and caused limited vehicle damage in parts of Jammu.

Jammu winds and rain bring sharp relief from heatwave

The strong winds, rain, and hail arrived after a very hot day in the region. Jammu city logged a maximum of 41.3 degrees Celsius, which was 3.8 degrees above normal. Samba was hotter at 46.1 degrees Celsius, and officials said the heat disrupted daily life before the evening change.

According to officials, gusty winds with rain and hailstorms swept Jammu and nearby districts, leading to a quick fall in temperature. The more comfortable weather drew many people outdoors after the storm passed. Hail was also reported in some parts of Jammu city during the evening spell.

Meteorological Department reports Jammu winds and rainfall totals

The Meteorological Department reported gusts of 48 knots, or 89 kmph, in Jammu. Gulmarg recorded 36 knots, or 67 kmph. Ramban and Kathua saw 31 knots, or 57 kmph. Officials linked the pole and transformer damage to these strong winds.

The department said notable rainfall was recorded till 7.30 pm. Bhaderwah received 27 mm of rain, Batote got 24.6 mm, and Bhella in Doda district recorded 18 mm. The showers added to the cooling effect that followed the earlier heat.

Jammu weather change affects Samba, Kathua, Udhampur and Reasi

Officials said the sudden change was felt across several Jammu region districts, including Samba, Kathua, Udhampur, and Reasi. Strong winds and rain brought a break from intense heat in these areas as well. Some power installations and small public assets saw minor damage, but authorities reported no deaths.

With inputs from PTI