The previous western disturbance resulted in a lot of snowfall over many parts of the hills of north India. In fact, that particular spell was the heaviest of the season and it resulted in a complete whiteout. In just about two days time, Gulmarg the famous ski resort recorded 86 mm of rain which is almost close to the monthly normal.
While the western disturbance moved away and clear weather conditions took over, the fear of avalanches still loomed large as avalanches occur usually after a snow spell like this one. In fact, as per reports, two Polish tourists have died in an avalanche that struck the Afarwat Peak at the ski resort of Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir, India.
At least 19 foreign tourists have been rescued, and rescue operations are ongoing. The bodies of the two Polish nationals have been recovered and taken to the hospital for medico-legal procedures. The number of people missing is unknown. Police teams, along with other agencies, are conducting the rescue operation. Videos of the avalanche have circulated on social media, showing people running to escape.
Just about a couple of days ago, the Sub Divisional Magistrate issued a public notice of the postponement of the Zanskar Winter sports and tourism Festival 2023 until further orders in view of avalanche warnings as well as inclement weather conditions.
