Most parts of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have been witnessing incessent rain and snow since the last 24 hours. Heavy rains and snowfall had also triggered an avalanche over Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora and Nowgam areas.
At least five soldiers of the Indian Army have been missing then. Although search operation has been underway but continues rains and snow is hampering the rescue efforts.
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Further, wetahermen do not expect relief from inclement weather condition anytime soon. According to Skynmet Weather, avalanche threat looms large Jammu and Kashmir at least for the next 48 hours. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand also need to be on alert.
Fairly widespread moderate to heavy rains and snow is likely to lash Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and isolated parts of Uttarakhand during the next two days. However, intensity would be more over Kashmir valley.
These ongoing weather activity can be attributed to the back to back Western Disturbances affecting Jammu and Kashmir. One systems has just moved away, while another has already started affecting the hilly region. In fact, places like Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam are already recording rains and snow since morning hours.
Thus, passage of Western Disturbances in quick succession makes Kashmir valley vulnerable for avalanches.
Avalanches are very common in the winter season in India. Heavy snowfall generally culminates into avalanches after the temperatures shoot up and the snow packs loses its hold. Avalanches can lead to catastrophic events as they come without warning. Though avalanches are most common during the winter season, glacier movements could lead to ice and snow avalanches at any time of year.
Avalanches are primarily composed of flowing snow and air but large avalanches also entrain ice, rocks, trees and other materials and slide down the slopes. In mountainous terrain, avalanches can be extremely hazardous to life and property. They have the potential to carry enormous masses of snow at high speeds.
Image credit: BBC
Any information taken from here should be credited to skymetweather.com
