Muzaffarabad (The Azadi Times): The first snowfall of the year has begun in Pakistan- and India-administered Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and the high-altitude areas of Jammu Kashmir.
Since the night between January 1 and 2, snowfall has started in the higher regions of Neelum Valley in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including Grace, Shounter, Surgan, Keran, Arang Kel, and Jagran, while the lower areas are experiencing rain.
Snowfall is also ongoing in the Leepa Valley, Haveli district, and high-altitude areas of Bagh and Rawalakot. In Muzaffarabad city, light rain has continued intermittently throughout the night, clearing the dust from the atmosphere. The sky remains overcast, and further rain is expected.
In India-administered Kashmir, snowfall continues in mountainous regions, intensifying the cold weather.
Several high-altitude areas in Gilgit-Baltistan are also witnessing snowfall. According to meteorologists, this spell of snowfall and rain is expected to last until January 6.
Tourists visiting the scenic areas and local travelers have been advised to exercise caution while traveling and to avoid trips to mountainous regions during heavy snowfall.
In snow-covered regions of Jammu and Kashmir, snowfall often leads to road closures and disruptions in electricity and communication networks, causing significant challenges for residents.