India, April 17 -- Authorities have issued an avalanche alert for North Kashmir, warning of a high risk of avalanches above 3000 metres in Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora over the next 24 hours following intense rainfall and fresh snowfall in higher reaches.

The Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Disaster Management Authority has urged residents, trekkers, and travelers to avoid venturing into high-altitude areas and to strictly adhere to safety advisories. Officials said the combination of heavy rain in plains and snowfall in upper reaches has significantly increased the likelihood of avalanches in vulnerable zones.

Meanwhile, the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been hit at multiple locations due to landslides and contin...