Avalanche, landslides after heavy rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, schools closed

An avalanche occurred in Sonamarg area of Jammu and Kashmir today amidst heavy rain and snowfall. In a video, an avalanche can be seen rumbling on a snow-covered mountain and some people and cattle can be seen running out of the area. Heavy rains have caused landslides in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir. A house adjacent to a hill was seen collapsing in a video after it was hit by a landslide in Uri near the Line of Control.

Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was also closed on Monday after several landslides caused by rain.

According to reports, the only all-weather highway connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country was blocked due to landslides in Mehar, Gangru, Mom Pasi and Kishtwari Pather in Ramban district.

Officials said Mughal Road, an alternative route connecting Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu to Shopian district of South Kashmir, remained closed for the third day due to snowfall in Peer Ki Gali and surrounding areas.

Rainfall during the last 72 hours has increased the water level in all rivers, lakes and drains in Kashmir and the Meteorological (MeT) office today said the same situation will continue during the next 24 hours. Many schools have been closed in areas prone to floods and landslides.