Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has issued a critical avalanche warning for eight districts of the Union Territory. Following heavy snowfall on Jan 23-24, the threat level in higher reaches has escalated to “High Danger” for six districts. Residents living above 2,300 meters—and those venturing into backcountry areas—are urged to exercise extreme caution.
The Danger Zones: Districts on Alert
According to the official advisory, the avalanche warning is active for the next 24 hours in the higher reaches of the following districts:
Red Zone (High Danger):
- Kupwara
- Ganderbal
- Doda
- Kishtwar
- Poonch
- Ramban
Orange Zone (Medium Danger):
- Bandipora
- Baramulla
Specific Danger Levels & Altitudes
- High Danger (Level-3/4): Likely to occur above 2,300 meters in Ganderbal and above 2,500 meters in Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch, Ramban, and Kupwara.
- Medium Danger (Level-2): Likely to occur above 2,400 meters in Bandipora and Baramulla.
The Science: Fresh snow has not yet bonded with the old ice layer, creating a “weak slab” that can be triggered easily by human movement (skiers, trekkers).
Key Highlights: Safety Protocols
- Helpline: In case of emergency, dial 112 immediately.
- Travel Advisory: Avoid venturing into slopes with an angle steeper than 30 degrees.
- Road Status: Be cautious on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) road. Note that the Gurez road (Razdan Pass) remains highly vulnerable and is likely closed.
FAQ Section
A: While the main bowl of Gulmarg is monitored, backcountry skiing is highly dangerous right now. Sonamarg (Ganderbal) falls under the High Danger zone; travel is not advised without checking the specific route status.
A: It means natural avalanches are certain in some areas, and large human-triggered avalanches are likely. Avoid all avalanche terrain entirely and stay in designated safe zones.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: KittoNews Desk
- Edited by: Senior Desk
- Source Transparency: “Advisory issued by JKDMA on Jan 24, 2026. Warning levels based on snow accumulation data from SASE (Snow & Avalanche Study Establishment).”
- Community Question: “Do you receive these alerts on SMS in your area? Let us know if the warning system is working effectively.”
- Accountability Footer: “Found an error? Email kittonews@gmail.com.”
