A powerful windstorm swept across the Kashmir Valley late Sunday night, causing widespread destruction, power outages, and claiming two lives.The worst tragedy occurred in Shopian’s Gadarchowgan Keller area, where Reyaz Ahmed and his young daughter Sabia died after a tree fell on them outside their home. Locals said they had stepped out to secure items in their yard when the tree collapsed.
From Kupwara to Anantnag, the storm uprooted trees, electric poles, and blew off rooftops of homes and mosques. In Srinagar, large hoardings fell on vehicles and flying tin sheets injured several people. At least five individuals were hospitalized with storm-related injuries.
Farmers in Pulwama, Budgam, and Baramulla reported severe damage to apple orchards and nurseries. Bashir Ahmed, a farmer from the Karewa belt, said all the newly planted apple saplings in his nursery had been uprooted.
The Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL) reported major damage to transmission lines and transformers. Several areas remained without electricity.
Water supply was also hit after pumping stations and overhead tanks were damaged. In Budgam, flying debris damaged many parked vehicles.
Authorities have launched a damage assessment drive, and emergency teams have been deployed to clear blocked roads. The Divisional Commissioner said restoration of essential services is ongoing on a war footing.
The Meteorological Department has forecast rain and thundershowers in isolated areas but ruled out another major windstorm for now. Residents have been advised to stay indoors during bad weather and secure any loose items.
