Dehradun: Uttarakhand is witnessing unusual climate shifts, with soaring temperatures in the plains, unexpected snowfall in Char Dham, and erratic rainfall patterns across the state.
Weather scientists are struggling to explain the contrasting conditions, as heatwaves grip lower regions while cold winds and snow persist in the mountains.
Dehradun, Uttarakhand: Heavy rains lashed Dehradun on Tuesday, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat. Meteorologist Rohit Thapliyal stated that heavy rainfall is expected in Kumaon’s Pithoragarh, Munsyari, and Bageshwar from June 12 to 14. Similarly, Garhwal regions… pic.twitter.com/QNq6zhvnTY
— IANS (@ians_india) June 11, 2025
Heatwave in plains, snowfall in Char Dham
The hilly districts of Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, and Dehradun, along with Terai regions like Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar, are experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures touching 40°C. Meanwhile, pilgrims visiting Char Dham are shivering in the cold, as fresh snowfall blankets Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib.
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Residents in low-lying areas are struggling with intense sunlight, forcing many to stay indoors. The sudden temperature rise has baffled locals, as they expected cooler conditions following rainfall on June 6 and 7. However, instead of relief, June 8 and 9 saw a severe heatwave, particularly in Dehradun, Haridwar, and Udham Singh Nagar.
Weather scientists analyze the shift
According to Rohit Thapliyal, a weather scientist, the Terai regions, including Dehradun, Haridwar, and Udham Singh Nagar, have recorded temperatures between 39-40°C over the past three days. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that the monsoon will soon arrive, with heavy rainfall expected in Kumaon and Nepal. Pithoragarh, Almora, and Bageshwar are likely to be highly affected, while Garhwal may see less rain.
Thapliyal stated, “Garhwal may not see as much rain, though heavy showers are expected in Kumaon on June 12. This will bring down temperatures and provide relief from the heat.”
Temperature trends over the years
Despite the current heatwave, temperatures remain lower than last year, with maximum readings recorded at three degrees below 2024 levels.
- 2020: Dehradun and Haridwar reached 38-40°C, while Nainital stayed below 30°C.
- 2021: Dehradun touched 40°C, with pre-monsoon rains lowering temperatures in June.
- 2022: Dehradun recorded 42.5°C, Haridwar 43°C, and Roorkee 42°C.
- 2023: Dehradun hit 41°C, Haridwar 42°C, and Pantnagar 39.5°C.
- 2024: Dehradun saw a record 43.3°C on May 31, while Haridwar peaked at 46°C on June 17.
Surprisingly, Srinagar, Devprayag, and Rudraprayag also exceeded 40°C in June 2024, an unusual occurrence for high-altitude regions.
Monsoon expected to bring relief
With temperatures fluctuating, scientists predict that rainfall in Kumaon on June 12 will cool the region. However, climate change patterns remain unpredictable, leaving experts concerned about future weather extremes. As Uttarakhand prepares for monsoon, residents hope for stability in weather conditions, while scientists continue to study the shifting climate trends.
