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Flood alert issued in Jammu, water levels continue to swell in Kashmir

Authorities on Tuesday issued a flood alert in parts of Jammu division after water levels in the Ujh and Ravi rivers crossed the alert mark following two days of incessant rainfall.

According to official figures, the discharge in the Ujh river at Panjtirthi touched 59,750 cusecs, well above the alert threshold of 48,000 cusecs. The danger mark stands at 88,000 cusecs. In Kathua district, the Ravi river level rose to 524.97 m MSL, crossing the alert mark of 523 m. The danger level for Ravi is 527.91 m MSL.

District administrations have been directed to remain on high alert, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas, while residents along riverbanks have been advised to exercise caution and follow official advisories.

In view of the prevailing situation, the Directorate of School Education Jammu (DSEJ) announced that all government and private schools across the division will remain closed on September 3, 2025. The order applies to both summer and winter zone schools and has been issued as a precautionary measure.

Meanwhile, continuous rainfall across south Kashmir has led to a surge in local water bodies. The Jhelum river, which measured 8.78 feet on September 1 at noon, had risen to 10.40 feet by Tuesday evening at Ram Munshi Bagh Srinagar.

Tributaries of the Jhelum are also witnessing a fast increase in discharge, though officials maintained there is currently no flood threat in the Valley, while stressing that the situation is being closely monitored.