Dehradun. A fresh surge of monsoon activity is set to lash Uttarakhand, with the state’s Meteorological Centre forecasting heavy to very heavy rain across large swathes of the region from September 26 through 28. The system is expected to deliver bouts of extremely heavy rainfall on the 26th and 27th, prompting red and orange alerts in several districts.
At the same time, fresh snow is blanketing the high‑altitude shrine of Hemkund Sahib, causing temperatures there to plunge sharply.
Dr. C. S. Tomar, Chief Scientist at the Meteorological Centre, explained that a low‑pressure depression lingering over southern Odisha and adjoining parts of southern Chhattisgarh is drifting north‑north‑westward, potentially intensifying precipitation over Uttarakhand during the warning period.
Red Alert Deployed in Five Districts on September 26
Red alerts have been activated for Bageshwar, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar, where the forecast calls for heavy to very heavy rain and isolated episodes of extreme downpours.
Orange alerts cover Dehradun, Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Almora, reflecting a high likelihood of heavy to very heavy showers.
Continued Rainfall Expected on September 27
On the 27th, Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar and Pauri are slated to receive heavy to very heavy rain, with pockets of extremely intense showers. These districts remain under red alert.
Nainital, Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag are also projected to see heavy to very heavy rain accompanied by winds of 30‑40 km/h, warranting orange alerts.
Further Showers Anticipated for September 28
Rainfall is likely to persist on September 28, especially across parts of Uttarkashi, Haridwar and Dehradun. Isolated thunderstorms and concentrated bursts of rain may develop.
Landslide and Flash‑Flood Risks
The Meteorological Centre cautions that the anticipated heavy rain could trigger light‑to‑moderate landslides and rockfalls in vulnerable hill zones. Road networks may be disrupted, river levels could rise rapidly, and flash floods might affect low‑lying communities.
Temporary structures, bridges and construction sites could also suffer damage, while essential services such as electricity and drinking‑water supply might be intermittently impacted.
Implications for Char Dham Yatra and Air‑Lift Operations
The ongoing rain spell may hamper the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, mountaineering activities and helicopter services. Pilgrims and tourists are urged to stay vigilant and avoid non‑essential travel through at‑risk areas.
Authorities advise the public to steer clear of swollen rivers, streams and drainage channels, refrain from boating, and remain indoors during severe rain bouts. Crossing zones affected by active landslides is strongly discouraged.
