Chicago – August 15, 2025
A sudden burst of heavy rain has claimed dozens of lives in India-administered Kashmir and sparked frantic rescue efforts, the second recent disaster to underscore the vulnerability of those living in the Himalayas to the effects of extreme weather.
At least 46 people have died and more than 200 are missing in the town of Chashoti, a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindu tourists, Reuters reported citing local officials.
Flash floods caused by the rain turned roads into raging rivers while the downpour devastated entire buildings and swept away vehicles, dramatic video shared on social media showed.
A wall of water, mud and debris could be seen rolling down the mountainside, one of the videos showed.
Rescue operations are ongoing with army and police personnel working to find those missing.
“The news is grim & accurate,” Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah wrote in a social media post. “All possible resources are being mobilised from within & beyond J&K to manage the rescue operations.”
Some of the rescued people have been taken to hospitals.
