The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority on Tuesday issued a red alert for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in parts of the state, directing district administrations and emergency agencies to remain prepared as persistent downpours heightened the risk of landslides, flash floods and road disruptions.
According to the alert, Dehradun, Tehri Garhwal and Nainital are among the districts facing the possibility of intense rainfall. Heavy rain is also expected at several places across Pauri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Champawat and Haridwar. The India Meteorological Department has warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in vulnerable areas.
Disaster teams on alert
Officials have been directed to maintain round-the-clock coordination and ensure immediate response to rain-related emergencies. Authorities are closely monitoring landslide-prone stretches, rivers, streams and low-lying areas, while people have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable mountainous regions and stay away from swollen water bodies.
Heavy rainfall has already affected several parts of the state. Haldwani recorded 152 mm of rainfall, while Chorgalia received 134 mm. Maldevta in Dehradun recorded 133 mm, followed by Kalsi at 119.5 mm and Kaladhungi at 116 mm. Continuous rainfall has caused waterlogging and flood-like conditions in some areas, particularly around the Bhimtal-Nainital region.
Schools shut in rain-hit areas
As a precaution, schools and Anganwadi centres have been closed in some districts. In Dehradun, all government, private and non-government schools from Classes 1 to 12, along with Anganwadi centres, were ordered shut for Tuesday. Nainital also extended the closure of schools and Anganwadi centres amid the continuing weather threat.
The Ganga's water level has also risen in Rishikesh following persistent rainfall in the Garhwal hills, although officials said it remained below the warning mark. SDRF, Water Police and disaster-response teams have been deployed at major ghats in Rishikesh, Muni Ki Reti and Lakshman Jhula, with residents and tourists being urged to exercise caution.