Ashwani Sharma
Early Times Report
Udhampur, Apr 3: Even as authorities issued a fresh weather advisory warning of thunderstorms and lightning across the district, a tragic incident in Dudu village claimed the life of a teenage girl, injured a man, and killed 20 sheep on Friday afternoon.
According to reports, the lightning strike occurred around 3:30 PM amid sudden weather changes linked to an active western disturbance. Pushpa Devi, daughter of Rajinder Bhagat, died on the spot after being struck by lightning. A local resident, Devi Ditta, son of Mansa Ram, sustained injuries and was given first aid at PHC Dudu before being shifted to Latti Hospital, where his condition is stated to be stable.
Meanwhile, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has issued a weather advisory for Jammu and Kashmir, including Udhampur, forecasting light to moderate rain, thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds, and possible hailstorms from April 3 to April 10. Higher reaches may also witness heavy rainfall or snowfall.
The advisory warns of possible landslides, disruption of transport including the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, and rising water levels in rivers and streams. Residents, especially in hilly and vulnerable areas, have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid landslide-prone zones, and take shelter during thunderstorms.
The incident has heightened concerns, underlining the serious risks posed by unpredictable weather conditions in remote regions. |
