Snowfall has graced Kashmir following a dry spell of more than two months.
Locals told The Kashmiriyat that since Wednesday morning, the plains have been blanketed with snow, creating picturesque landscapes
Kulgam, Kupwara, Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Sopore and Ganderbal, among others, experienced overnight snowfall, while some parts of Jammu received heavy overnight rains.
In Anantnag District, snowfall varies across locations with Pahalgam recording the highest at 8-9 inches, while Bijbehara experienced 3-4 inches. Pulwama District saw lighter snowfall, ranging from 1-4 inches in different areas, with Tral receiving 3-4 inches. L
Moving to Kulgam, Aharbal witnessed a significant snowfall of 1 foot, while other areas reported 2-7 inches. Shopian District received 3-6 inches of snow, with Herman recording 6 inches.
Ganderbal and Budgam Districts experienced lighter snowfall, ranging from 1-3 inches, while Srinagar District reported 1-2 inches in various areas.
Kupwara District saw varying snowfall, from 4-5 inches in Kupwara Town to 1.5-2 ft. in Karnah upper areas. In Baramulla District, Gulmarg witnessed substantial snowfall of 2 ft.+, while other areas reported 2-6 inches.
Bandipora District experienced 1-2 inches of snow in Ajas and Sumbal, contrasting with Gurez at 2 ft. 7 inches. Finally, in the Jammu Region, notable snowfall included 7 inches in Bufliaz Poonch and 14 inches in Gandoh Bhalessa Doda, while other areas reported 1-6 inches of snow.
People throughout and outside the valley of Kashmir were being affected due to the severe drought.
The locals also organized several prayers dedicated for the relief in weather conditions which was affecting the tourism and agriculture of the region.
The snowfall has caused hindrance in the movement as the Jammu-Srinagar NHW is blocked due to shooting stones at T2 and heavy snowfall between Ramsoo and Banihal.
The Mughal Road and SSG road have been closed due to snow accumulation, official said.
A low danger level avalanche is anticipated between altitudes of 2800 and 3500 meters in Doda and Ganderbal districts, while a medium danger level avalanche is expected above 2400 meters in Poonch, Baramulla, Bandipore, and Kupwara districts within the next 24 hour.
“Residents in these regions are strongly advised to exercise caution, refrain from venturing into avalanche-prone areas, and promptly seek assistance by dialing 112 in case of emergencies,” officials said.
Meanwhile the Jammu Kashmir Police has issued various helpline numbers in view of the inclement weather, while the district administration has also set up emergency services across the region.