Unseasonal weather conditions continue to grip Uttarakhand as both the hilly and plain regions witness persistent rain and hailstorms for the past four days, leading to a sharp drop in temperatures and increased risk of landslides in sensitive areas.
According to the Meteorological Department, intense showers, thunder, lightning, and hailstorms have been reported across multiple districts, with particularly severe conditions on the Char Dham Yatra routes. This has heightened concerns over the safety of pilgrims and the stability of landslide-prone zones.
An orange alert has been issued for the districts of Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Dehradun, and Tehri. These areas are expected to experience heavy rainfall, lightning strikes, hailstorms, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h. Authorities have been urged to remain vigilant, especially in mountainous regions.
Tuesday saw a weather pattern of alternating sunshine and clouds in many areas, including Dehradun. In the Kumaon region, light showers were recorded in some parts, while Garhwal experienced intense rainfall accompanied by thunder and dense cloud cover. The Char Dham shrines also saw light rain and strong winds in the afternoon.
Later in the day, heavy showers lashed Dehradun and Mussoorie, causing a noticeable dip in temperatures. Maximum temperatures in most regions are now 3 to 6 degrees Celsius below normal, intensifying the cold wave conditions, especially in the higher altitudes where chilly winds and snow have added to the discomfort.
Bikram Singh, Director of the regional meteorological centre in Dehradun, stated that overcast conditions are expected to persist across the state today, with heavy snowfall likely in parts of Uttarkashi and Rudraprayag. Local authorities and residents are advised to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas.
