Avalanche warning in J&K, HP

Shimla, March 17: An avalanche warning was today issued for higher areas of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, advising people not to venture out in vulnerable areas in the next two days.

The advisory was issued by the Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE), part of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). A "medium danger" warning exists for avalanche-prone areas of Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipore, Bandipur, Gandarbal, Poonch, Rajouri, Riyasi, Ramban, Doda and Kargil districts of Jammu and Kashmir.

In Himachal Pradesh, a "medium danger" avalanche warning exists for higher areas. "Light to moderate precipitation may continue in various parts of J&K and Himachal Pradesh," SASE said.

It said that since yesterday, Pharkian, Z-Gali, Kanzalwan, Dras, Banihal Top, Gulmarg, Haddan Taj and Neelam areas of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed fresh snowfall of 40 cm, 30 cm, 22 cm, five cm, 10 cm, 25 cm, 33 cm and 40 cm, respectively.

In Himachal Pradesh, Dhundi, Patsio and Solang Nala and Bahang witnessed rains and snowfall.

PTI