Sign In
By signing in or creating an account, you agree with Associated Broadcasting Company's Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
By signing in or creating an account, you agree with Associated Broadcasting Company's Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
Dehradun: The weather in Uttarakhand is expected to change from January 22, with light rain and snowfall forecast in some mountainous regions. According to the Meteorological Department, districts like Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh may see precipitation, while other areas will remain dry.
For now, the state continues to face dry conditions. On Monday, Dehradun and surrounding areas experienced bright sunshine, raising day temperatures and worsening air quality. Light snowfall has been reported in high‑altitude areas such as Badrinath Dham and Hemkund Sahib in Chamoli district, but overall, the absence of widespread rain and snow has created difficulties across the state.
No major change is expected on January 20 and 21
The Meteorological Center has clarified that no major change is expected on January 20 and 21. However, between January 22 and 25, weather activity is likely to increase, bringing relief to some regions. Snowfall is expected above 3,000 meters, while lower areas may see light rain.
No tourists in Auli lacking snowfall this year
The lack of snowfall has directly affected Uttarakhand’s tourism and trekking business. In December, destinations like Auli and Bedni in Chamoli are usually covered with snow, attracting large numbers of tourists. This year, however, the Bugyals and mountain peaks remain bare.
At Lohajung, a base camp for many trekking companies, business has slowed. Last year, after snowfall, 700 to 1,000 tourists visited daily. This season, only 296 tourists arrived by January 10, highlighting the sharp decline.
Rhododendron blooms early due to the dry conditions
Climate change has also disrupted natural cycles. Rhododendron, a medicinal flower that normally blooms in March, has already blossomed in mid‑January at altitudes above 1,500 meters. This premature bloom threatens the ecosystem and may reduce the quality and production of rhododendron products.
Rhododendron flowers are a vital source of income for women in mountainous regions, who prepare juice and squash for sale in local markets. Early blooming could affect both livelihoods and the traditional rhythm of mountain life.
Tourism, agriculture, and local ecosystems all affected
Officials say the upcoming spell of rain and snow may provide temporary relief, but the unusual weather patterns underline the growing impact of climate change in Uttarakhand. With tourism, agriculture, and local ecosystems all affected, the state faces challenges in balancing development with environmental preservation.
