Sonamarg witnesses a fresh spell of snow.

Sonmarg in Jammu and Kashmir woke up to a pristine blanket of fresh snowfall on Sunday, transforming the hill town into a winter wonderland. The snowfall covered roads, rooftops, and surrounding landscapes, attracting locals and tourists eager to witness the scenic beauty.

Local businesses catering to tourism have welcomed the snowfall, hoping for a boost in visitors during the peak winter season.

Dense fog enveloped Srinagar city and the iconic Dal Lake on Sunday morning, reducing visibility and adding to the chill as the cold wave continues to grip the Kashmir Valley. Temperatures remained well below normal, with the minimum expected to hover around single digits, intensifying the wintry conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for both Kashmir and Jammu division forecasting moderate to heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir.

This fresh snowfall marks the start of Kashmir’s 40-day harsh winter period, which continues until January 31. It follows a prolonged dry spell, making it one of the major wet spells of the season.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of moderate to heavy snowfall in Kupwara, Bandipora, and Ganderbal on December 21.

Meanwhile, Leh was transformed into a stunning white wonderland on Sunday as the town experienced a fresh spell of snowfall. Roads, rooftops, and surrounding mountains were blanketed in pristine snow, creating picturesque landscapes that delighted both residents and tourists.

Children were seen playing gleefully in the snow, making snowmen and enjoying the winter magic.

Authorities stepped up preparations on Saturday ahead of the forecasted heavy snowfall in the higher reaches. J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a review meeting to assess winter preparedness across the Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley.

“I took a review of both the divisions, especially areas where it is expected to snow — all the districts in the Valley and the higher reaches of Jammu. The administration has finalised all preparations, but whether it would suffice would be known only on Sunday, when it begins to snow,” PTI quoted Omar Abdullah as saying.