Himalayan Dilemma: Unpredictable Rain Threats

A series of cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides have wreaked havoc across the Himalayan states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand this monsoon season, exposing the region's vulnerability to sudden rainstorms.

Despite some districts registering 'normal' or even below-normal seasonal rainfall, lethal weather events have occurred, showing that average precipitation is not always a reliable indicator of potential destruction. For instance, Kishtwar in Jammu recorded significant shortfalls in rain yet suffered deadly flash floods.

Experts warn that such extreme weather events are increasing due to global warming, where even relatively moderate rainfalls can lead to catastrophic outcomes because of saturated lands and unstable mountain slopes.

(With inputs from agencies.)