Kashmir, known for its breathtaking landscapes, awoke to a picturesque scene on Thursday morning as a fresh blanket of snow covered several areas, marking the arrival of winter in earnest. While light snowfall graced the plains, higher altitudes experienced heavy accumulation, bringing both joy and challenges to residents.

Tourist hotspots like Sonamarg and Zojila were among the most affected, with Sonamarg recording an impressive 10 inches of snow and Zojila Pass seeing over 12 inches. Other notable accumulations included Sadhna Pass and Sinthan Top, each receiving between 13 to 15 inches, while Tangmarg, at a lower elevation than Gulmarg, surprisingly reported heavier snowfall of 3-4 inches.

In the plains, districts such as Budgam and Kupwara experienced moderate snowfall, with Khan Sahib and Hachmarg each recording about 2 inches. The Rajpora tehsil in Pulwama also saw varying levels of snowfall, with Sangerwani leading at 4 inches. Meanwhile, light snow added a subtle charm to areas like Bandipora and Vailoo in Kokernag.

#WATCH | Baramulla, J&K: Sopore receives a fresh spell of snowfall. pic.twitter.com/YVMHv9E9pS

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— ANI (@ANI) December 12, 2024

Meteorological forecasts indicate that the weather will remain generally cloudy over the next 12 hours, with isolated spells of rain or snow possible. However, no significant weather activity is anticipated during this period. From tomorrow onward, a week of predominantly dry weather is expected, offering a brief respite to the region.

#WATCH | Jammu and Kashmir: Kupwara covered in a blanket of snow, as the area receives heavy snowfall pic.twitter.com/9HqVmRryyj

— ANI (@ANI) December 12, 2024

Snowfall Brings Joy

The recent snowfall has not only brought smiles to locals and tourists alike but also holds significant importance for agriculture in Kashmir. After last year’s prolonged dry spell, the snow is expected to replenish vital water resources and enhance soil moisture for the upcoming agricultural season, providing hope for a more stable year ahead for the region’s farming communities.

As residents enjoy the winter wonderland, authorities are urging caution on the roads due to potential slippery conditions and travel disruptions in higher altitudes. With the beauty of the snow-laden landscape captivating visitors and locals alike, Kashmir continues to showcase its enchanting winter charm amidst the challenges it brings.

Also Read: IMD Weather Alert: Rainfall In Tamil Nadu, Snow In Himachal; Cold Wave Across Northern States