Avalanche strikes Warwan Valley

Anantnag, Jan 29: A massive avalanche struck the remote Warwan Valley in Kishtwar district of Chenab Valley on late Wednesday, prompting authorities to warn residents to avoid avalanche-prone areas.

No casualties or damage to property were reported, officials said.

ìThe avalanche descended from a high altitude in the Sukhnoi area amid heavy snowfall in the valley,î an official said.

Authorities advised residents to remain cautious, particularly those living in villages located along foothills.

ìIt has snowed heavily in the isolated twin valleys of Warwan and Marwa. Residents should avoid venturing into vulnerable areas,î the official said.

The only surface road connecting the twin valleys - the Gawran-Margan Top road connecting it with Kashmir remains mostly closed during winter due to heavy snow accumulation at Margan Pass.

The valleys are also not connected to the district headquarters in Kishtwar.

A video circulating on social media captured the moment the avalanche swept through the area, carrying snow and debris downhill.

Earlier Tuesday night, a powerful avalanche struck the tourist resort of Sonamarg in Ganderbal district.

Officials said a large mass of snow rushed towards nearby houses and hotels.

CCTV footage showed snow rapidly engulfing buildings along its path.

No injuries or deaths were reported there either.

The avalanches are part of a continuing spell of harsh weather across J&K.

Over the past two days, higher reaches of the region have received heavy snowfall, while lower areas have seen moderate to light snowfall and rains, disrupting normal life.

A snow avalanche occurs when an unstable mass of snow breaks free from a slope and accelerates downhill, posing serious risks to life and property.

Avalanches can travel at speeds exceeding 320 km per hour.

Authorities have already issued avalanche warnings in several districts in Kashmir and Jammu region.