Uttarakhand weather update: Orange alert issued in several districts in Kumaon, Heavy rain brings relief
Uttarakhand weather update: Orange alert issued in several districts in Kumaon, Heavy rain brings relief
: The heavy rains hit Uttarakhand, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat that had gripped the state for several days. Pre-monsoon showers have cooled temperatures across the region, with residents celebrating the change in weather from Dehradun to Mussoorie.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), light to moderate rain and thunderstorms are likely to occur at most places in the hills of the Kumaon region, as well as in Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts. Many other districts are also expected to receive rainfall today.
The IMD has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Nainital, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh districts. These areas are also likely to experience lightning and strong winds, prompting authorities to urge residents and travelers to remain cautious. A yellow alert has been issued for other districts, including Chamoli and Rudraprayag, where moderate rainfall and thunderstorms are expected.
The rainfall has led to a significant drop in temperatures, especially in the hill stations. In Dehradun, the maximum temperature fell to 30.2°C, which is 4 degrees below normal. The city experienced partly cloudy skies and thundershowers, with intermittent rain cooling the atmosphere. According to the IMD, the effect of a cyclonic circulation and south-eastern winds is influencing the weather across Uttarakhand. This has intensified the pre-monsoon rainfall phase, even before the official onset of the monsoon.
The IMD has forecast light to moderate rain across the state until June 21, with occasional heavy spells in the hilly districts. The cooler temperatures and cloudy skies are expected to persist, offering continued relief from the heatwave that had pushed temperatures above 40°C in many areas.
Authorities have advised pilgrims on the Char Dham Yatra and other travelers to check weather conditions before setting out. People are urged to avoid crossing swollen rivers and streams, and to pause their journeys if conditions worsen.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local administration are on high alert, ready to respond to any emergencies caused by landslides, flash floods, or road blockages. As the rainy season sets in, Uttarakhand residents are hopeful for continued respite from the heat, while remaining vigilant against the risks posed by heavy rainfall.
Namita is an Assistant News Editor at News9 Live. She has reported on a range of issues from Uttarakhand for mainstream papers such as The Hindu and websites such as Firstpost.com. She has also covered elections in the hill state for both Deccan Herald and The Hindu. Her passion is dissecting the politics of Uttarakhand and meeting and understanding the principal political actors of the state. Namita did PG Diploma in Journalism from AMU and later she pursued MJMC, when not busy writing, she loves to spend time with books, poetry and fiction as well as nonfiction.