Dehradun: As Uttarakhand enters the second phase of its three-tier Panchayat elections today, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in several mountainous districts, including Tehri, Pauri, and Nainital. The warning comes amid ongoing monsoon activity that has already damaged roads and disrupted daily life in parts of the state.
Polling is underway in 40 development blocks across 12 districts, but the weather has raised concerns about voter turnout and logistical challenges.
Election officials have deployed additional personnel and emergency teams
In Tehri, where the maximum temperature hovered around 24.5°C and the minimum at 18.4°C, intermittent showers have softened hill slopes, increasing the risk of landslides. Election officials have deployed additional personnel and emergency teams to ensure polling booths remain accessible. Pauri district, which has seen consistent rainfall over the past week, is also under close watch. The IMD has forecast intense spells of rain accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. Local authorities have stationed JCB machines in vulnerable zones to clear debris and maintain road connectivity. Despite the weather, polling began on schedule, though movement in remote areas remains slow.
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IMD has warned of thunderstorms and waterlogging, especially in low-lying areas and near riverbanks
Nainital, a key district in the Kumaon region, is facing similar conditions. The IMD has warned of thunderstorms and waterlogging, especially in low-lying areas and near riverbanks. Five rural roads in the district were closed on Sunday due to landslides, and officials fear further disruptions if rainfall intensifies. The district administration has advised voters to avoid risky travel and stay updated through official channels.
Sunday’s rain brought relief from the heat in Dehradun
In Dehradun, Sunday’s rain brought relief from the heat but also caused waterlogging in several areas. Over 30 mm of rainfall was recorded, and temperatures dropped by nearly 5°C. Monday’s forecast predicts continued showers, with a maximum temperature of 29°C and minimum of 24°C. The city remains on alert, especially in flood-prone zones.
Lightning and intense rain may occur in all districts of Uttarakhand
The IMD has also cautioned that lightning and intense rain may occur in all districts of Uttarakhand, urging residents to avoid open areas and landslide-prone slopes. The Char Dham Yatra routes have been affected, and pilgrims have been advised to delay travel plans.
Despite the challenges, the State Election Commission has expressed confidence in managing the situation. Safety provisions have been arranged at polling booths, and disaster response teams are on standby. The final phase of voting is expected to conclude by evening, with counting scheduled for July 31.
