The famous ski resort of Gulmarg and several other areas in the Kashmir Valley received fresh snowfall on Thursday, while high-speed winds swept through Srinagar and other plains, officials said. Snowfall began in Gulmarg, located in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, late on Thursday evening as a strong western disturbance impacted Jammu and Kashmir.
A couple of inches of fresh snow accumulated at the resort, where moderate snowfall was continuing when last reports were received. Officials said other areas, particularly the higher reaches of Kupwara, Baramulla and Shopian districts, also received fresh snowfall. Meanwhile, several areas in the plains of the Valley, including Srinagar, were lashed by rain, which continued till the filing of this report.
Officials said strong, high-speed winds swept through several parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar. Trees were uprooted at many locations, while the electricity supply was snapped in affected areas as a precautionary measure. The Meteorological Department said widespread light to moderate rainfall and snowfall is expected across the region, including the plains of the Valley, with heavy falls at isolated places. It added that the main activity of the weather system is likely to occur on Friday, as another western disturbance is expected to affect Jammu and Kashmir on January 26.
Last week, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of light to moderate snowfall in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The IMD said that these systems are not exceptionally strong, but they are expected to result in snow accumulation at elevations above 3,400 metres, accompanied by cold conditions and potential travel disruptions in alpine regions.
(With inputs from PTI.)
Which areas in Kashmir have received snowfall?
Gulmarg and higher reaches of Kupwara, Baramulla and Shopian saw fresh snow; plains like Srinagar had rain.
How much snow has fallen?
A couple of inches at Gulmarg. Higher reaches saw light to moderate accumulation. Moderate snowfall is continuing in some places.
Has it disrupted daily life?
Yes—strong winds uprooted trees, and electricity was cut in some areas as a precaution. Travel may be affected.
What is causing the snowfall?
Last week, the IMD had flagged a strong western disturbance which would bring snow.
What precautions are advised?
Residents and tourists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and follow advisories by local authorities.