Dehradun: Uttarakhand is bracing for intense monsoon activity as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in six districts—Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Nainital, Champawat, and Udham Singh Nagar. The alert also includes warnings of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h.
In light of the forecast, Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal has declared a holiday for all schools and Anganwadi centers from Classes 1 to 12 on Monday. The decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff amid the expected severe weather conditions.
Advisories to district magistrates in the affected regions
The State Disaster Operations Center has issued advisories to district magistrates in the affected regions, urging them to remain vigilant and take necessary steps to mitigate risks. Officials have been instructed to activate emergency response teams and monitor vulnerable areas prone to landslides and flash floods.
Rain brought temperature drop in the state
The weather in Uttarakhand had remained relatively stable over the past few days, with minimal rainfall and rising temperatures in the hills. However, the rain that began on Saturday night brought a noticeable drop in temperature, offering relief from the heat. On Sunday, Dehradun remained overcast throughout the day, with light showers in the evening followed by heavy rainfall late at night.
According to the Meteorological Center, the maximum temperature in Dehradun dropped to 29.0°C, while the minimum settled at 23.2°C. Pantnagar recorded a high of 33.4°C and a low of 24.5°C. Mukteshwar and New Tehri remained cooler, with maximum temperatures of 20.7°C and 19.4°C respectively.
Heavy rainfall at isolated places in other districts of Uttarakhand
The IMD has also predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places in other districts of Uttarakhand, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds ranging from 30–40 km/h. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, especially in landslide-prone zones and near riverbanks.
Disaster management teams deployed in sensitive areas
Local administrations are on standby, with disaster management teams deployed in sensitive areas. The public has been urged to follow official updates and take precautions, including securing loose items, avoiding waterlogged roads, and staying indoors during intense spells of rain.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have assured that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard lives and property.
