Dehradun. The monsoon has surged again in Uttarakhand, and the state’s Meteorological Centre has issued warnings of intense rainfall from 26 September through 28 September. Forecasts indicate heavy to very heavy rain, with isolated pockets of extremely heavy downpours on the 26th and 27th, prompting red and orange alerts across a number of districts.
The worsening weather has also ushered fresh snowfall at Hemkund Sahib, causing a noticeable drop in temperature at the high‑altitude shrine.
Dr. C. S. Tomar, Chief Scientist at the Meteorological Centre, explained that a depression lingering over southern Odisha and adjoining parts of southern Chhattisgarh is drifting north‑north‑westward, potentially intensifying rainfall over Uttarakhand on 26‑27 September.
Red Alert for Five Districts on 26 September
Red alerts have been declared for Bageshwar, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar, where heavy to very heavy rain—and in some locations, extremely heavy rain—are expected.
Dehradun, Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Almora are under orange alerts because of the likelihood of heavy to very heavy showers.
Rain Continues on 27 September
On 27 September, Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar and Pauri are projected to receive heavy to very heavy rain, with isolated areas possibly experiencing extremely heavy bursts. These districts are also under a red alert.
Nainital, Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag may see similarly intense rain accompanied by winds of 30‑40 km/h, and have been placed under orange alerts.
Further Showers Expected on 28 September
Rainfall is likely to persist on 28 September, especially across parts of Uttarkashi, Haridwar and Dehradun. Scattered thunderstorms and brief, intense rain spells could affect isolated locations.
Landslides and Flash Floods Remain a Threat
The centre warned that heavy rain could trigger light‑to‑moderate landslides and rockfalls in vulnerable hill zones. Roadways may be blocked, river levels could rise rapidly, and sudden flash floods might endanger low‑lying settlements.
Temporary structures, bridges and construction sites are also at risk, and essential services such as electricity and drinking‑water supply could be disrupted in affected areas.
Impact on Char Dham Yatra and Helicopter Operations
The rain spell may hamper Char Dham pilgrimages, mountaineering ventures and helicopter services. Pilgrims and tourists have been urged to stay vigilant and avoid travel through high‑risk zones unless absolutely necessary.
Authorities advise people to steer clear of swollen rivers, streams and drains, refrain from boating during heavy rain, and remain indoors during severe downpours. Crossing landslide‑prone areas is strongly discouraged.
