Dehradun: Monsoon rains have intensified across Uttarakhand, disrupting daily life and travel while triggering flood alerts and multiple road closures. The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Nainital, Bageshwar, Dehradun, and Rudraprayag. Meanwhile, a yellow alert is in place for Chamoli, Tehri, Pauri, Champawat, and Pithoragarh districts.
Persistent downpours since the onset of monsoon have caused widespread landslides and rising water levels in rivers and streams across the hill state. On Friday, the state administration raised alarms as critical pilgrimage and transport routes became unsafe. Heavy showers with thunder and lightning are forecast for most parts, including areas along the Char Dham Yatra route.
Disrupted pilgrim movement in Char Dham shrines
In the Kumaon region, the situation remains especially concerning. Late-night rainfall in and around the four Dhams—Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri—has led to disrupted pilgrim movement, waterlogged paths, and reports of increased landslide activity.
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33 routes are currently blocked due to rain-induced debris
According to the State Emergency Operation Center, 33 routes are currently blocked due to rain-induced debris. Notably, the Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway remains shut to heavy vehicles after boulders and rubble fell near Pinola Ghat beyond Joshimath. Additionally, 24 routes under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and six maintained by the Public Works Department are closed.
Flood warning in eight districts
The Ministry of Earth Sciences has issued a flood warning in eight districts—Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Dehradun, Nainital, Champawat, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh. In response, the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority has dispatched warnings to respective district administrations, urging readiness for evacuation and immediate relief operations if required.
Weather fluctuations continue to affect residents
In Dehradun, the capital city, weather fluctuations continue to affect residents. The maximum temperature dropped by 6.2°C on Wednesday, offering relief from the summer heat. However, the minimum temperature rose slightly to 26°C, indicating high moisture retention. Meteorologist Rohit Thapliyal reported that 1.3 mm of rain was recorded in parts of the Doon valley, and he anticipates continued rainfall over the coming days.
Heavy rain may persist across Uttarakhand until July 2
The Meteorological Department has warned that heavy rains, coupled with strong winds, may persist across Uttarakhand until July 2. People living in vulnerable or landslide-prone zones are being advised to exercise extreme caution, limit travel, and follow official advisories. The likelihood of moderate to intense showers along the Char Dham Yatra routes has also raised concerns over the safety of pilgrims.
All emergency services on high alert
As the state braces for more rain, the government has placed all emergency services, including SDRF and district administrations, on high alert. Field personnel are monitoring river levels and road conditions, while machinery has been deployed for quick debris clearance and road reopening.
The administration has urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid rumor-mongering, and rely only on official sources for weather and safety updates.
