Fresh Snowfall Blankets Kashmir’s Gurez Valley, Tourists Advised to Avoid Travel Amid Weather Alert

Fresh snowfall covered parts of Kashmir’s picturesque Gurez Valley on Wednesday, November 11, bringing a winter chill to the region and transforming the higher reaches into a snowy landscape. However, the change in weather has prompted authorities to issue travel warnings, advising tourists to avoid visiting the valley amid forecasts of heavier snowfall and possible road closures.

The higher reaches of north Kashmir, including Tulail Valley in Gurez, received fresh snowfall overnight. Snowfall was also reported in Gulmarg’s Kongdoori and the Zojila area, while several parts of the Kashmir Valley experienced light rainfall.

The fresh spell comes ahead of a major weather system expected to affect Jammu and Kashmir between November 12 and 14.

Authorities Restrict Tourist Movement in Gurez

In view of the possibility of heavy snowfall and disruption of road connectivity, the Bandipora district administration has temporarily prohibited tourist visits to Gurez Valley.

Tourists already staying in the area have been advised to arrange their return journeys immediately in coordination with the District Control Room. Earlier, Bandipora Police had urged visitors to leave the valley by November 10 to avoid getting stranded due to adverse weather conditions.

Authorities have warned that heavy snowfall could block roads and cut off the remote valley from other parts of Kashmir.

Travellers have also been advised to avoid unnecessary movement towards higher reaches, check weather and road conditions before travelling and follow instructions issued by the local administration.

Heavy Snowfall Expected in Higher Reaches

According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir is likely to experience widespread rainfall and snowfall from November 12 to 14.

Moderate to heavy snowfall is expected in the higher reaches of Kupwara and Bandipora districts, while popular tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and other mountainous areas may also receive fresh snow.

Some higher-altitude locations could receive substantial snowfall, with accumulations of one to two feet possible in certain areas.

The weather department has also forecast a significant drop in daytime temperatures, with temperatures potentially falling by 6-8 degrees Celsius on November 12 and 13.

Mughal Road Closed Following Snowfall

Fresh snowfall and slippery road conditions have also affected transportation in the region.

Authorities have suspended vehicular movement on the Mughal Road following snowfall at Peer Ki Gali. The route connects south Kashmir with the Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu division.

Commuters have been advised not to travel on the road until authorities issue fresh clearance.

Other important mountain routes, including Zojila Pass, Razdan Pass and Sadhna Top, could also face disruptions if snowfall intensifies.

Tourists and Residents Asked to Remain Alert

The district administration has urged tourists, residents and other travellers to prioritise safety and avoid unnecessary journeys during the upcoming weather spell.

People travelling for examinations, medical consultations, weddings and other important engagements have been advised to plan their journeys well in advance.

Expectant mothers living in remote upper reaches have also been advised to move to nearby hospitals if their expected delivery dates fall within the coming month, ensuring access to medical assistance in case roads become inaccessible.

For emergency assistance, the Bandipora District Control Room can be contacted at 7006526985, 7006630771 and 7006328689.

With fresh snowfall already covering parts of Gurez and more intense precipitation forecast over the coming days, authorities have urged everyone to follow official advisories and avoid unnecessary travel until weather and road conditions improve.