The Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rain alert for several districts in Uttarakhand, signaling a potential for significant weather-related disruptions across the state.
A yellow alert has been declared for a number of northern and eastern districts, with authorities urging residents and tourists to exercise caution amid forecasts of thunderstorms, lightning, and intense downpours. The warning is in effect for today and the days immediately following.
Our correspondent reports that the districts of Uttarkashi, Nainital, Chamoli, and Almora are expected to be the most severely affected. The forecast indicates that these regions will experience heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 24 to 48 hours.
The high-intensity showers are expected to be accompanied by strong winds and an increased risk of landslides, which pose a significant threat to transportation and public safety. The state’s disaster management authority has activated its rapid response teams and is coordinating with local administrations to mitigate potential damage.
The monsoon’s impact has already been felt across the hilly terrain, and this fresh spell of rain is a cause for concern for local authorities. Our correspondent adds that the continuous rainfall can lead to a rise in water levels in rivers and streams, particularly the major tributaries of the Ganga.
This poses a direct threat to low-lying areas and villages situated along riverbanks. District administrations in the affected regions have been placed on high alert and have been instructed to monitor vulnerable areas closely.
The weather patterns are not uniform across the state. While the northern districts brace for heavy showers, the plains of Uttarakhand, including cities in the Terai and Bhabar regions like Udham Singh Nagar and Haridwar, are expected to experience a different weather system.
These areas are likely to see partly cloudy skies with scattered, light rainfall and a high probability of thunderstorms in the afternoon or evening. The plains are generally not under the same level of alert as the mountainous regions, though residents are still advised to stay informed about local weather updates.
Our correspondent reports that the state administration has issued a travel advisory, particularly for pilgrims and tourists traveling on the Char Dham yatra routes. Pilgrims and tourists are advised to postpone non-essential travel to the affected districts and to be extra vigilant if they are already in the region.
The authorities have emphasized the importance of checking road conditions and staying in contact with local officials. Given the history of landslides and flash floods in the state, the government is taking all necessary precautions to prevent any untoward incidents.
The focus is on ensuring the safety of all citizens, particularly in areas with a high density of tourists and pilgrims. The state government has also activated a 24-hour helpline for emergencies, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
