The picturesque landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir were blanketed in heavy snowfall on Monday, with moderate snow and rain affecting the plains. The Meteorological (MeT) department reported significant snowfall in popular tourist destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg over the past 24 hours.

According to a MeT office statement, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy with light to moderate rain in the plains and snow across most parts of the region. While conditions are anticipated to improve by the afternoon, further snowfall is predicted on January 11 and 12. Residents and travelers are advised to heed weather advisories due to sub-freezing temperatures and icy road conditions.

Srinagar recorded a chilly minimum temperature of minus 0.5 degrees Celsius, while Gulmarg plunged to minus 4.5 degrees and Pahalgam to minus 1.4 degrees.

The adverse weather has caused delays for all morning flights at Srinagar airport, with officials reporting that operations have been pushed back until at least 12 noon. Director Javed Anjum stated that while the runway remains clear, resumption of flights is contingent on weather improvements. On Sunday, dense fog had led to the cancellation of all flights due to zero visibility.

In response to the snowfall, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assured people that restoration efforts are underway. “Following the snowfall in JK yesterday, particularly in the valley, restoration work is in full swing being closely monitored,” Abdullah said in a post on X. He noted that electricity demand in the valley is currently at 1200 MW and is expected to rise throughout the day.

As the Kashmir Valley experiences its traditional 40-day period of extreme winter cold, which began on December 21 and will last until January 30, many water bodies remain partially frozen. Health officials have urged people, particularly children and the elderly, to take precautions against prolonged exposure to the cold.

Despite the challenges posed by the weather, fresh snowfall has delighted tourists flocking to Gulmarg, Pahalagam, Srinagar Dal Lake and other hill stations, with hotels in these areas reportedly fully booked. As group of tourists at Dal Lake Srinagar told News24 “we have heard about Kashmir and it’s beauty but after seeing it ourselves, we are thrilled it’s really heaven on earth. Another group of tourists while speaking to News24 said that both the natural beauty of Kashmir and local people are wonderful here, we haven’t seen such a warm people elsewhere in the world.” local businesses are optimistic about a boost in tourism during this snowy season.

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