Srinagar, July 20 -- Srinagar- Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed an unprecedented spell of extreme weather this month so far, with more than 20 cloudbursts reported across the Union Territory, triggering flash floods, landslides and widespread destruction that have claimed several lives and damaged public infrastructure.

Officials said that at least 15 cloudbursts were reported during the first 14 days of July, affecting several parts of Kashmir and the Jammu region. The worst-hit areas included the Tulail Valley and Gurez in North Kashmir, besides the upper reaches of Thathri and the Bhalesa in Doda district.

"The weather activity intensified further over the weekend, with at least two major cloudbursts striking Chasoti in Kishtwar and K...