Srinagar: Authorities have issued an avalanche alert for North Kashmir, warning of a high risk of avalanches above 3000 metres in Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora over the next 24 hours following intense rainfall and fresh snowfall in higher reaches.
The Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Disaster Management Authority has urged residents, trekkers, and travelers to avoid venturing into high-altitude areas and to strictly adhere to safety advisories. Officials said the combination of heavy rain in plains and snowfall in upper reaches has significantly increased the likelihood of avalanches in vulnerable zones.
Meanwhile, the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been hit at multiple locations due to landslides and continuous rainfall, disrupting vehicular movement and causing inconvenience to commuters. Restoration work is underway, but authorities have advised against unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
Higher reaches across Kashmir have received substantial snowfall, particularly in areas like Gurez Valley and the upper slopes of Gulmarg, including the Afarwat hills, where fresh accumulation has been reported. The snowfall has further aggravated the risk of avalanches and made road conditions hazardous.
In addition, the Srinagar-Leh Highway has been closed due to snowfall and slippery road conditions, cutting off connectivity with Ladakh for the time being.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have deployed teams to respond to any emergencies. People have been advised to stay updated through official channels and exercise extreme caution.