Avalanche threat in Ladakh, J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand today due to heavy snowfall

Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been experiencing moderate to heavy rainfall and snowfall during the past 24 hours. While Himachal Pradesh witnessed scattered activities, the weather was mainly dry with cloudy sky conditions in Uttarakhand.

As per the weathermen, this condition is expected to prevail in the entire region, with the intensity likely to be at its peak today. In fact, northern hills might likely receive the heaviest
Heavy to very heavy rainfall and snowfall is also predicted in several parts of Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir within the next 24 hours. Also, Uttarakhand will observe rainfall and snowfall, the intensity of which will gradually increase from tonight.

Reportedly, 629 roads in Himachal Pradesh, including five national highways are still blocked because of heavy snowfall during the last week. And, because of the ongoing spell, the condition is expected to worsen further. Also, there are chances of mudslides and landslides, along with significant damage, in areas that are prone to avalanches. Areas that are more likely to witness intense weather are some of the more famous tourist destinations, including Srinagar, Pahalgam, Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Mussoorie, Kedarnath, and Nainital. Therefore, one should halt any immediate plans of travelling to these regions during till there is an improvement in weather conditions.

Met department has attributed these weather conditions to the strong and active Western Disturbance over the Western Himalayas. This condition might cause heavy rain and snowfall till tomorrow evening. After this, the weather conditions will get better for some time, until January 16, before another Western Disturbance makes an entry, and aggravates the situation further as per the predictions.