Dehradun. A fresh pulse of monsoon activity is set to batter Uttarakhand, with the state’s Meteorological Centre forecasting heavy to very heavy rain across large swathes of the region from 26 September through 28 September. The system is expected to intensify on the 26th and 27th, prompting red and orange alerts in several districts.

Snowfall reaches Hemkund Sahib, amplifying the chill

Alongside the deluge, fresh snowfall has begun to coat the high‑altitude pilgrimage site of Hemkund Sahib, causing temperatures to plunge sharply and adding a winter‑like bite to the already damp conditions.

What the experts say

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. This feature is likely to feed moisture into Uttarakhand, fuelling the expected downpours on 26 and 27 September.

Red‑alert districts on 26 September

The following districts have been placed under a red alert, indicating a high probability of heavy to very heavy rain, with isolated bouts of extremely heavy showers:

  • Bageshwar
  • Nainital
  • Pithoragarh
  • Champawat
  • Udham Singh Nagar

Orange alerts – denoting a likelihood of heavy to very heavy rain – have been issued for Dehradun, Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Almora.

Rain outlook for 27 September

On the 27th, heavy to very heavy rain is expected to continue in Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar and Pauri, with isolated pockets possibly seeing extremely heavy showers. These districts remain under a red alert.

Meanwhile, Nainital, Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag are slated for heavy to very heavy rain accompanied by gusty winds of 30‑40 km/h, meriting orange alerts.

Further activity on 28 September

The rain train is not expected to ease on the 28th. Parts of Uttarkashi, Haridwar and Dehradun may still experience significant rainfall, with thunderstorms and intense bursts possible at isolated locations.

Landslides, flash floods and infrastructure threats

The Meteorological Centre cautions that the steep, rain‑saturated slopes could trigger light to moderate landslides and falling rocks. Road networks, especially mountain highways, may be obstructed. Rising river levels could provoke sudden flash floods in low‑lying valleys, endangering temporary structures, bridges and construction sites. Disruptions to electricity and drinking‑water supplies cannot be ruled out.

Implications for Char Dham Yatra and air services

The on‑going deluge threatens the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, mountaineering pursuits and helicopter operations. Pilgrims and tourists are urged to stay vigilant, avoid non‑essential travel through vulnerable zones, and refrain from boating or wading in swollen streams. Authorities recommend remaining indoors during the heaviest spells and steering clear of areas affected by active landslides.

Stay informed, stay safe – the monsoon’s fury is real, but preparedness can minimise its impact.