Dehradun: The snowfall in higher altitude and pre-monsoon showers in Uttarakhand have significantly lowered temperatures, bringing relief from the summer heat. While the mountains continue to experience snowfall, the plains have seen a noticeable drop in mercury, making the weather pleasant yet unpredictable.
The Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rain and thunderstorms across several districts like Pithoragarh & Bageshwar, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Almora, Nainital & Champawat districts, with a yellow alert issued for strong winds and rain.
Mercury drops across plains
The continuous rain in Dehradun has led to a sharp decline in temperature, with the maximum recorded at 27.6°C, eight degrees below normal. Similarly, Tehri saw a maximum drop of 9°C, while Mukteshwar recorded a chilly minimum of 10.4°C, making it one of the coldest spots in the region.
The morning showers in Dehradun on Tuesday and Wednesday brought a cool breeze, but the intermittent sunshine created a mix of warmth and chill. The humidity levels have fluctuated, making the weather pleasant yet unpredictable for residents.
Snowfall in higher altitudes impacting plains
The recent snowfall in Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib has had a direct impact on the plains, contributing to the cooler temperatures. Yamunotri Dham witnessed its first snowfall of the year, covering Sapt Rishi Kund, Bandarpoonch, and Garuda Ganga Top in fresh snow. Meanwhile, Hemkund Sahib experienced snowfall for the third consecutive day, adding to the chilling effect across the region. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been alerting devotees about the cold conditions, ensuring their safety during the Char Dham Yatra.
Changing weather patterns & climate impact
Meteorologists suggest that the increase in pre-monsoon rains has contributed to the cooler temperatures. The snowfall in high-altitude areas has further lowered mercury levels in the plains, making the weather unusually cold for June. Experts also point to climate change as a factor behind these shifting weather patterns, with unexpected temperature drops and frequent rain showers altering the seasonal norms.
Impact on Badrinath Maha Yojana
The melting icebergs in Badrinath have raised the water level of the Alaknanda River, affecting the ongoing riverfront development. The temporary road built for movement towards Badrinath temple has been submerged, causing delays in construction work.
Weather advisory for travelers
With rain expected to continue, travelers and Char Dham Yatra pilgrims are advised to stay updated on weather alerts. The plains may experience drizzle with strong winds, while the mountains will remain partly cloudy with occasional thundershowers. The unexpected cold spell has made June feel more like early spring, offering temporary relief from the summer heat. However, residents should prepare for fluctuating temperatures as the monsoon approaches.
