Snowfall has commenced over the hills and is likely to increase significantly by January 24th and may continue until January 27th. This may be the longest and heaviest spell of snowfall over western Himalayas during this season. Avalanche has been reported in Lahaul valley on January 22nd. Atal tunnel is closed for traffic due to snowfall and avalanche.
The Disaster Management Authority of Jammu and Kashmir has warned about medium level avalanches in Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch, Ramban, Bandipore and Kupwara districts and low chances of avalanches in Baramulla and Ganderbal districts of the state. In Himachal Pradesh also, Kullu, Lahaul Spiti, Pangi in Chamba and Kinnaur districts are declared Avalanche prone.
Many roads are already closed due to snowfall. A long weekend is coming. 26th January is on Thursday, one leave on Friday on 27th will extend the weekend until 29th Sunday. Many people will be planning to go to hilly destinations to witness snowfall. This is because of back to back Western Disturbances likely over the regions.
Therefore, we at Skymet want to warn you about traffic jams and road closures. If you wish to go then drive carefully as roads become slippery and driving becomes difficult and dangerous.