Jammu–Srinagar NHW Closed Amid Heavy Rains; Advisory Issued to Commuters Srinagar, Aug 18: The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NHW) has been closed for traffic due to heavy rains lashing its entire stretch, making travel unsafe. Authorities have urged commuters to avoid undertaking journeys until weather conditions improve and the road is cleared. The Traffic Police have advised the public to follow their official Twitter handle and Facebook page for regular updates. For real-time information, commuters may also contact Traffic Control Units at Jammu (0191-2459048, 0191-2740550, 9419147732, 103), Srinagar (0194-2450022, 2485396, 18001807091, 103), and Ramban (9419993745, 1800-180-7043). Meanwhile, the higher reaches of Kashmir Valley — including Zojila Pass, Razdan Top, Sadhna Top, and Sinthan Top — may witness the season’s first light snowfall by this evening, with a 50–60% probability. The Meteorological Department has forecast widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir in the next 24 hours, with localized heavy downpours and high-intensity showers likely in some districts. Areas around Bandipora, Ganderbal, and Srinagar may experience particularly intense rainfall by tomorrow morning. Advisories: High risk of flash floods and cloudbursts. Shooting stones and landslides likely along mountain passes and the Jammu–Srinagar NHW. Rising water levels in streams and rivers expected. Here’s the latest update on water levels in Kashmir: Current Situation: Water Levels in Kashmir River Water Levels & Alerts The Irrigation & Flood Control Department (IFC), Kashmir runs a Flood Early Warning System providing real-time gauge readings for the Jhelum River and its tributaries via X (formerly Twitter), although no recent updates have been posted publicly in the last few months . Jhelum River Levels Data from a few months ago shows a temporary increase in the Jhelum’s levels due to rainfall, followed by a decline. Currently, there’s no active flood condition reported in the valley . Notably, an earlier heatwave had caused a substantial drop in water levels across rivers, lakes, and reservoirs—leading to irrigation challenges for crops and orchards in several districts . Further, Weather & Heavy Rainfall May Trigger Flash Floods in Jhelum Basin As per the forecast issued by IMD, weather conditions are expected to remain erratic until 19 Aug 2025. Isolated heavy rainfall is likely in the Jhelum basin, which may lead to flash floods. The general public is advised to exercise caution and avoid venturing near water bodies Lidder Nallah (South Kashmir) Recent community updates suggest that after a brief surge, the water level in Lidder Nallah has now dipped below the flood alarm mark, though authorities still advise caution . Chenab River (Reasi / Ramban region) As of late June 2025, rising water levels in the Chenab River prompted the opening of spillway gates at Salal Dam, with advisories issued to downstream communities and suspension of river rafting operations . No further updates for July or August are available, but linked visuals indicate significant flows in the Ramban stretch .