Dehradun. The monsoon has surged again in Uttarakhand, prompting the Meteorological Centre to announce heavy to very heavy rainfall across several regions from September 26 through 28. Red and orange alerts have been activated for a number of districts as the system is expected to dump intense rain on September 26‑27.
The worsening conditions have also ushered fresh snowfall onto the Hemkund Sahib sanctuary, causing temperatures at the high‑altitude shrine to plunge sharply.
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‑northwestward, potentially steering severe weather into Uttarakhand during the forecast window.
Red Alert in Five Districts on September 26
Bageshwar, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar have been placed under a red alert, with the possibility of heavy to very heavy rain and isolated bouts of extremely heavy downpours.
Dehradun, Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Almora are under orange alerts as they may also experience heavy to very heavy rainfall.
Rainfall Expected to Persist on September 27
On the 27th, Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar and Pauri are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rain, with pockets of extremely heavy showers. A red alert remains in force for these districts.
Nainital, Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag are forecast to see comparable rain intensity, accompanied by winds of 30‑40 km/h, and have been issued orange alerts.
Continued Showers on September 28
Rain activity is projected to linger on September 28, especially across parts of Uttarkashi, Haridwar and Dehradun. Isolated thunderstorms and intense rain bursts may develop.
Landslides and Flash Floods Pose a Threat
The centre warned that heavy rain could trigger light‑to‑moderate landslides and rock falls in vulnerable hill zones. Road networks may be blocked, river levels could rise quickly, and sudden flash floods might affect low‑lying settlements.
Temporary structures, bridges and construction sites are also at risk, and essential services such as electricity and drinking‑water supply could face interruptions.
Impact on Char Dham Yatra and Helicopter Operations
The ongoing downpours may disrupt the Char Dham pilgrimage, mountaineering ventures and helicopter services. Travelers are urged to stay vigilant, avoid non‑essential movement through high‑risk zones, and steer clear of swollen rivers, streams and drains.
Authorities recommend that residents remain indoors during intense rain spells and refrain from crossing areas affected by active landslides.
