Dehradun. The monsoon has surged again in Uttarakhand, prompting the Meteorological Centre to announce heavy to very heavy rainfall across large swathes of the state from September 26 through 28. Forecasts call for periods of extremely heavy rain on the 26th and 27th, leading to red and orange alerts in several districts.
The worsening conditions have also ushered fresh snowfall at Hemkund Sahib, sharply increasing the chill at the high‑altitude shrine.
Dr. C.S. Tomar, Chief Scientist at the Meteorological Centre, explained that a depression over southern Odisha and adjoining parts of southern Chhattisgarh is tracking north‑northwestward, intensifying precipitation over Uttarakhand on September 26‑27.
Red Alert for Five Districts on September 26
Red alerts have been declared for Bageshwar, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar, where heavy to very heavy rain—and in isolated spots, extremely heavy downpours—are expected.
Dehradun, Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Almora are under orange alerts because of the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rain.
Rainfall to Persist on September 27
On September 27, Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar and Pauri are projected to receive heavy to very heavy rain, with isolated areas possibly seeing extremely heavy showers. These districts are also under a red alert.
Nainital, Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag are forecast to experience heavy to very heavy rain accompanied by winds of 30‑40 km/h, prompting orange alerts.
Further Showers Expected on September 28
Rainfall is likely to continue on September 28, especially in parts of Uttarkashi, Haridwar and Dehradun. Thunderstorms and intense rain bursts may affect isolated locations.
Landslides and Flash Floods Remain a Threat
The centre warned that light to moderate landslides and falling rocks could occur in vulnerable hill zones during the heavy rain spells. Road networks may be disrupted, river levels could rise, and sudden flash floods might affect low‑lying areas.
Temporary structures, bridges and construction sites are at risk, and essential services such as electricity and drinking water could face interruptions in some locales.
Impact on Char Dham Yatra and Helicopter Operations
The prolonged downpour may disrupt the Char Dham pilgrimage, mountaineering activities and helicopter services. Pilgrims and tourists are urged to stay alert and avoid traveling through high‑risk zones unless absolutely necessary.
Authorities advise staying away from swollen rivers, streams and drains, refraining from boating during heavy rain, and remaining indoors during intense showers. Crossing areas prone to active landslides is strongly discouraged.
