Dehradun: With the monsoon officially arriving in Kerala, Uttarakhand has now begun its countdown to the rainy season, expected to reach the state by mid-June.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Dehradun centre, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecasted in the coming days, leading to a yellow alert across several districts.
Monsoon likely to reach Uttarakhand around June 20
Historically, the monsoon takes approximately 20 days to travel from Kerala to Uttarakhand, making June 20 the expected date for its arrival. In 2021, the monsoon entered Uttarakhand earlier than usual on June 13, while in previous years such as 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2017, there were delays, pushing its onset into July.
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Before the full-fledged monsoon arrives, pre-monsoon showers are forecasted to intensify across mountainous regions, offering some respite from the heat. Partial cloud cover and scattered rainfall have already been reported in hill districts, while plains, including Dehradun, remain hot and humid.
Humidity soars as Uttarakhand awaits relief
While the hilly regions are witnessing sporadic rain, the plains continue to suffer from intense humidity. Dehradun and nearby areas have seen fluctuating weather conditions, with cloud buildup but no significant relief from heat. Meteorologists predict that as the monsoon progresses, widespread rainfall will significantly lower temperatures.
IMD issues rainfall alert for Uttarakhand
The Meteorological Department has confirmed the arrival of monsoon and issued an alert for heavy rainfall across the state. According to forecasts, light to moderate rain will persist from the mountains to the plains until July 3. The expected rainfall intensity could lead to flash floods, landslides, and waterlogging in hilly and urban areas, necessitating precautionary measures.
Monsoon expected to be stronger than normal
The IMD has noted that Uttarakhand’s summer season (March 1–May 31) recorded 20% less rainfall than normal, leading to drier-than-usual conditions. However, as the monsoon approaches, the rainfall pattern is expected to strengthen, with the state likely to receive 10% more rainfall than average this year.
Preparations underway as monsoon nears
With the approaching monsoon, authorities are gearing up for potential risks, including floods, landslides, and travel disruptions. District administrations have been alerted, and pre-monsoon showers have already started intensifying. As Uttarakhand prepares for its monsoon transition, officials urge residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions, particularly in low-lying and landslide-prone areas.
