Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, May 12: Hailstorm and gusty winds triggered panic among the residents in Kashmir today causing widespread damage to the orchards and crops.
A severe hailstorm accompanied by strong winds struck several areas of Kashmir this evening, triggering panic among residents and causing widespread damage to orchards, crops, and property.
The upper reaches of Baramulla town, Pattan, Kreeri, and several adjoining areas of district witnessed intense hail and heavy rains.
The hail storm and rains also lashed parts of central Kashmir districts of Budgam, Ganderbal and South Kashmir districts of Shopian, Pulwama, Kulgam and Anantnag. This caused severe damage to the orchards and crops. Click here to watch video
The hailstorm caused extensive damage to apple orchards and standing crops, while cherry and apricot orchards were among the worst affected, raising fears of major financial losses among fruit growers ahead of the harvesting season. Several vehicles parked in open spaces were also reportedly damaged due to the intensity of the storm.
Residents described the weather disturbance as sudden and severe, with strong winds and continuous hail creating panic-like scenes across the district as people rushed indoors for safety.
Farmers and orchardists have urged the administration to immediately assess the damage and provide compensation and necessary relief to the affected growers.
Kashmir has been witnessing gusty winds and rains and hail storm during last three days.
The weatherman today forecast spells of light to moderate rain, thundershower at most places in the region with hailstorm and gusty winds at few places.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
