Massive Avalanche Strikes Sonmarg, No Casualties Reported

“Nature’s Force Unleashed – Sonmarg Avalanche Caught on Camera”

Ganderbal (Jammu and Kashmir), March 5: A massive avalanche struck the Sarbal area of Sonmarg in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Wednesday, triggering alarm but fortunately causing no casualties or injuries. The dramatic moment was caught on camera, highlighting the raw power of nature in the region.

No Loss of Life as Avalanche Hits Sonmarg

Authorities confirmed that while the avalanche was significant, it did not result in any loss of life or damage to property. Videos circulating on social media show the snow cascading down the slopes, reinforcing the risks posed by avalanches in the Western Himalayan region.

Avalanches are common after fresh snowfall, as a new snow layer weakens the stability of the existing snowpack. Various factors, including gravity, temperature shifts, wind, terrain, and human activities, can trigger these sudden snow slides.

Understanding Avalanches: Causes & Risk Zones

Avalanches can occur due to natural forces such as:
✔ Steep slopes & gravity
✔ Earthquakes & warming temperatures
✔ Wind & terrain conditions

However, human activities like skiing, construction, and controlled explosives for slope management can also contribute to avalanche occurrences.

The Himalayas, particularly the Western Himalayan region covering Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, are prone to frequent avalanches. These zones are classified into three risk categories:

Red Zone: High-risk area with an impact pressure exceeding 3 tonnes per square meter—most dangerous for habitation and activities.
Blue Zone: Medium-risk zone where the avalanche force is less than 3 tonnes per square meter, allowing limited activities.
Yellow Zone: Low-risk area where avalanches occur occasionally.

Can Avalanches Be Predicted?

While scientists cannot precisely predict when and where an avalanche will strike, they can estimate hazard levels based on:
🔹 Snowpack analysis
🔹 Temperature fluctuations
🔹 Wind and terrain assessments

To mitigate avalanche threats, experts recommend:
✅ Constructing sturdy structures to anchor snowpacks
✅ Restricting unsustainable development & tourism in high-risk zones
✅ Using controlled explosions to manage hazardous slopes