Dehradun: Uttarakhand continues to face intense heat, but relief is expected today with arrival of monsoon as the Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rain in several districts, including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Almora, Nainital, Champawat, and Pithoragarh. Additionally, isolated showers are likely in Rudraprayag, Pauri, and Udham Singh Nagar, with thunderstorms and winds reaching up to 40-50 km/h.
The plains remain gripped by high temperatures, with Dehradun touching 39.1°C and Pantnagar recording 38.6°C. The heat has made daily life challenging, while humidity further intensifies discomfort. However, in contrast, higher-altitude areas such as Kedarnath Dham and Hemkund Sahib have experienced fresh snowfall, maintaining cooler conditions.
Heatwave intensifies in plains
Residents in Dehradun, Haridwar, and Udham Singh Nagar are struggling with rising temperatures, as the mercury crossed 40°C in several areas. On Tuesday, Dehradun recorded a maximum temperature of 39.1°C, while Pantnagar reached 38.6°C. The humidity and hot winds have made conditions unbearable, forcing people to limit outdoor activities.
Meteorologists predict that dry weather will continue in most districts until June 11, with surface winds reaching speeds of 30-40 km/h. The heatwave effects are expected to persist, particularly in low-lying regions, where temperatures remain above seasonal averages.
Relief in hills as snowfall continues
In contrast, mountainous areas such as Kedarnath Dham and Hemkund Sahib have witnessed fresh snowfall, leading to a significant drop in temperatures. The high Himalayan regions remain cold, offering respite to pilgrims and tourists visiting these sacred sites. The snow-covered landscapes have drawn visitors seeking cooler weather, while locals have reported pleasant conditions compared to the sweltering heat in the plains.
Rain expected in select districts
The Meteorological Department has forecast light to moderate rain in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Almora, Nainital, Champawat, and Pithoragarh. Additionally, isolated showers may occur in Rudraprayag, Pauri, and Udham Singh Nagar, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching 40-50 km/h.
Dr. Bikram Singh, Director of the Meteorological Center in Dehradun, stated that weather conditions will remain varied, with hot winds dominating the plains while rain and thunderstorms bring relief to select hilly areas.
Monsoon arrival expected soon
The monsoon is expected to arrive today, bringing widespread rainfall across Garhwal and Kumaon divisions. Over the next six days, showers are likely in multiple districts, including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pauri Garhwal, Almora, Bageshwar, Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, and Udham Singh Nagar.
Authorities have advised residents to prepare for changing weather conditions, as strong winds and lightning may disrupt daily activities. With the monsoon approaching, Uttarakhand’s plains and hills alike anticipate much-needed relief from the intense heat.
