Avalanche warning issued in five J&K districts after heavy snowfall

An avalanche warning has been issued for five districts of Jammu and Kashmir, Doda, Ganderbal, Kishtwar, Poonch and Ramban for the next 24 hours from Wednesday, December 24, following moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches.

Officials said a low-danger avalanche could occur above 2,800 metres, and residents and travellers have been advised to avoid avalanche-prone areas and follow official advisories.

Avalanches are fairly common in Jammu and Kashmir, especially during winter months, as the Union territory has steep mountainous terrain and heavy seasonal snowfall. Districts along the Pir Panjal and Greater Himalayan ranges frequently witness avalanche activity, which often disrupts road connectivity and poses risks to remote habitations, security forces and tourists.