Meteorological assessments indicated that it was not a fully developed tornado. Radar data showed no clear rotational signature, and wind patterns remained broad and disorganised.
The phenomenon lasted nearly 10 minutes. (X)
A rare, tornado-like weather event was witnessed in Akhnoor on Saturday evening, briefly causing panic among residents.
According to Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Jammu and Kashmir Meteorological Department, the phenomenon lasted nearly 10 minutes in an open field and did not cause any damage.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a rapidly rotating column of wind that lifted dust and light debris into the air, prompting people to seek shelter. Several videos of the incident surfaced on social media, capturing the unusual sight and the reactions of locals.
Weather conditions in the area shifted quickly during the day. Clear skies turned overcast around 4:45 pm, followed by light to moderate rainfall and thundershowers in parts of the region.
Dr. Ahmad termed the incident extremely rare for Jammu, explaining that thunderstorm activity led to the formation of a squall line, which briefly intensified into a tornado-like system.
However, meteorological assessments indicated that it was not a fully developed tornado. Radar data showed no clear rotational signature, and wind patterns remained broad and disorganised. Experts also noted weak and inconsistent vertical wind shear, reducing the likelihood of sustained tornado formation.
Officials further said that while similar isolated events have occurred in parts of Punjab in recent years, such phenomena are uncommon in the Jammu region.
Despite the momentary alarm, authorities confirmed that there were no reports of casualties or property damage.
Akhnoor, India, India
April 12, 2026, 09:24 IST
Read More
