Severe snowfall, avalanches, and a glacier collapse in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and J&K have triggered travel disruptions, blocked roads, and rescue efforts.

Extreme Weather Unleashes Havoc Across Northern India: Avalanches, Heavy Snowfall, and Travel Disruptions

Severe winter weather has gripped northern India, bringing heavy snowfall, landslides, and avalanches across multiple states. Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir have been hit hardest, with blocked roads, disrupted transportation, and an ongoing rescue operation in Chamoli following a devastating glacier collapse. The extreme conditions have not only affected residents but have also put tourists and construction workers in grave danger.

Glacier Collapse Triggers Avalanche in Chamoli

A catastrophic glacier collapse near Badrinath Dham in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district led to a massive avalanche on the morning of February 27, 2025. The disaster buried 57 workers engaged in a construction project in Mana village, trapping them under snow and debris. So far, 15 individuals have been rescued, while efforts continue to locate the remaining 42 workers from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and the Indian Army, are battling adverse weather conditions in a race against time.

Heavy Snowfall and Landslides Cut Off Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh has also been reeling under the impact of relentless snowfall and torrential rains. Kullu, Mandi, and Lahaul-Spiti districts have witnessed flash floods, landslides, and widespread power outages, paralyzing daily life. Over 200 roads have been blocked, isolating several towns and villages. The Lahaul and Spiti police have issued an avalanche alert, warning residents and travelers of potential slides in high-risk areas. Keylong remains buried under thick layers of snow, adding to concerns over accessibility.

Jammu & Kashmir Faces Widespread Disruptions

Jammu & Kashmir has been grappling with its own set of challenges due to the extreme weather. While the Doda district has finally received much-needed snowfall after a prolonged dry spell, the region’s higher reaches, including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam, are now blanketed in fresh snow. The snowfall has caused significant travel delays, with Srinagar’s airport experiencing widespread flight disruptions. The government has also extended winter vacations for schools in the Valley and winter zone areas of Jammu until March 7 due to the harsh conditions.

Travel and Safety Concerns Amid Harsh Weather

The ongoing snowfall, landslides, and avalanches have made travel to many parts of northern India extremely dangerous. While Badrinath Dham remains closed for the season, accessing Chamoli and Mana village has become nearly impossible due to hazardous road conditions. Similarly, the blocked roads and avalanche risks in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir have severely impacted transportation and local businesses.

Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli

As extreme weather continues to wreak havoc, the situation in Chamoli remains critical. Rescue teams are working around the clock to locate the remaining trapped workers, with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami closely monitoring the developments. However, deteriorating weather conditions are complicating the mission, underscoring the immense challenges posed by nature’s fury.

Northern India Braces for More Challenges

With forecasts predicting continued snowfall and rain in the coming days, authorities are urging residents and travelers to exercise caution. Emergency response teams remain on high alert, while efforts to restore connectivity and assist affected communities continue. The harsh winter conditions serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and unforgiving nature of the Himalayan terrain.

The post Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, India in Crisis as Extreme Snowfall Triggers Travel Disruptions appeared first on Travel And Tour World.