Uttarakhand weather: Orange alert for heavy rain, snowfall and strong winds in 7 districts, schools closed
The Meteorological Department in Uttarakhand has issued an orange alert for seven districts, warning of heavy rain, hailstorms, and lightning, while schools and Anganwadi centers in Dehradun have been closed for safety.
Dehradun: The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for heavy rain and strong winds in several districts of Uttarakhand. The alert covers Dehradun, Haridwar, Pauri, Tehri, Champawat, Nainital, Almora, and Udham Singh Nagar. Snowfall is also expected in the mountainous regions of Dehradun due to the activation of a new western disturbance.
The weather has already changed in the state, with recent rain and snowfall bringing pleasant conditions to the mountains. However, the new system is expected to intensify weather activity. The Meteorological Center has warned of hailstorms and lightning at some locations, along with heavy rain and moderate snowfall in higher areas.
Schools closed in Dehradun
The district administration in Dehradun is on high alert. Schools and Anganwadi centers have been declared closed due to the orange alert. Officials have advised residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during the period of heavy rain and storms.
Rain alert till Tehri
According to the Meteorological Department, hailstorms and lightning are possible from Tuesday to Wednesday in Dehradun, Champawat, Haridwar, Nainital, Almora, Pauri, Tehri, and Udham Singh Nagar. Strong winds with speeds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour are also expected, which may disrupt normal life and damage crops or property.
Yellow alert for other districts
In addition to the orange alert, a yellow alert has been issued for Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh. These districts may experience strong winds at speeds of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour along with lightning. The department has also warned of cold day conditions in some areas.
Impact on people and farmers
The changing weather has created concern among farmers, who are already facing dry conditions. While rain may provide relief for crops, hailstorms and strong winds could cause damage. Residents in the plains are also preparing for heavy showers and gusty winds, while those in the hills are bracing for snowfall.
People are advised to stay indoors during storms
The Meteorological Department has advised people to stay indoors during storms, secure loose items, and avoid traveling to high‑risk areas. With the weather expected to remain unstable until January 28th, the administration is taking precautionary steps to ensure safety.
The orange and yellow alerts highlight the seriousness of the situation, reminding people that while rain and snow may bring relief, the accompanying storms and winds could pose challenges across Uttarakhand.