Dehradun. The monsoon has surged again in Uttarakhand, and the Meteorological Centre has sounded the alarm for intense rainfall across several regions from September 26 through 28. Forecasts call for heavy to very heavy showers, with isolated pockets of extremely heavy rain on the 26th and 27th, prompting red and orange alerts in a number of districts.
The worsening conditions have also ushered fresh snowfall onto Hemkund Sahib, causing a noticeable dip in temperature at the high‑altitude pilgrimage venue.
Dr. C. S. Tomar, Chief Scientist at the Meteorological Centre, explained that a low‑pressure system situated over southern Odisha and adjoining parts of southern Chhattisgarh is drifting north‑north‑westward, likely to intensify 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 some spots, extremely heavy downpours—are expected.
Dehradun, Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Almora are under orange alerts owing to the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rain.
Rainfall Expected to Persist on September 27
On the 27th, Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar and Pauri are projected to receive heavy to very heavy rain, with isolated areas possibly experiencing extremely heavy showers; a red alert covers these districts.
Nainital, Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag are also slated for heavy to very heavy rain, accompanied by winds of 30‑40 km/h, and an orange alert has been issued for these locations.
Further Rain Likely on September 28
Rain activity is expected to continue on September 28, especially across parts of Uttarkashi, Haridwar and Dehradun, where thunderstorms and intense rain bursts may develop in isolated spots.
Landslides and Flash Floods Pose a Threat
The centre warned that light to moderate landslides and falling rocks could occur in vulnerable hill zones during the heavy downpours. Roads and highways may be blocked, river levels could rise rapidly, and sudden flash floods might affect low‑lying areas.
Temporary structures, bridges and construction sites are also at risk, and essential services such as electricity and drinking‑water supply could face interruptions in certain localities.
Impact on Char Dham Yatra and Helicopter Operations
The prolonged heavy rain may disrupt the Char Dham Yatra, mountaineering activities and helicopter services. Pilgrims and tourists are urged to stay vigilant and avoid traveling through vulnerable routes unless absolutely necessary.
Authorities advise people to stay clear of swollen rivers, streams and drains, refrain from boating during heavy rain, remain indoors during intense showers, and avoid crossing areas impacted by active landslides.
