Dehradun: The unseasonal heavy rains in Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib alongside heavy rains in several parts of Uttarakhand have led to a sharp drop in temperature, forcing residents to pull out warm clothes in the middle of summer.
While the mountains continue to experience snowfall, the plains have also turned colder, making this one of the most unusual weather patterns recorded in June. Meanwhile, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain and strong winds in several hilly districts, including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh
Snowfall in Shri Kedarnath dham🙏😍 pic.twitter.com/hAk38RPiQX
— Uttarakhandi (@UttarakhandGo) June 4, 2025
Severe cold grips Uttarakhand
The continuous rainfall has caused temperatures to plummet, particularly in Srinagar Garhwal, where locals report experiencing winter-like cold for the first time in June. Children and the elderly are struggling to cope with the unexpected chill, and daily life has been disrupted in several areas due to the persistent rain.
Meanwhile, Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib have witnessed light snowfall, further intensifying the cold wave in the region. The faithful devotees, however, remain undaunted, continuing their ritual baths in Him Sarovar despite the freezing conditions.
Devotees brave the cold for ritual bath
Despite the severe cold, devotees at Hemkund Sahib are taking holy dips in Him Sarovar, demonstrating unwavering faith and devotion. After their ritual bath, they proceed to the Gurudwara to offer prayers, creating a remarkable sight of spiritual endurance. The administration has stepped up safety measures, ensuring that pilgrims are protected from extreme weather conditions. SDRF personnel have been deployed to monitor the situation, offering guidance and assistance to devotees.
Yellow alert issued for heavy rain & strong winds
The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain and strong winds in several hilly districts, including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh. In the plains, lightning and heavy rain are expected, further cooling the atmosphere. The weather is predicted to remain unstable until June 6, after which dry conditions will prevail across Uttarakhand until June 7 and 9.
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.
Precautions & advisory
Authorities have advised residents and tourists to stay updated on weather alerts, especially in high-altitude areas where rain and snowfall could impact travel routes. The yellow alert for thunderstorms suggests strong winds, so caution is necessary for outdoor activities and transportation. With monsoon approaching, Uttarakhand’s weather patterns will shift, bringing cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. Travelers should plan accordingly, ensuring safety and preparedness for changing conditions.
