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Dehradun: The weather in Uttarakhand is set to change today, January 16, with rain and snowfall predicted in the higher Himalayan regions. According to the Meteorological Center, light to moderate rain is likely in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Pithoragarh, while snowfall is possible above 3,400 meters.
Other districts are expected to remain dry, but the impact of western disturbance will lower temperatures across the plains.
Orange alert in Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar
The Meteorological Department has forecast similar weather conditions until January 21. Dense fog is expected in several areas, prompting an orange alert in Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar. Authorities have warned of very poor visibility and cold wave conditions.
In response to the cold wave alert, the Haridwar District Magistrate has declared a holiday for schools and Anganwadi centers today. Officials said the step was necessary to protect children from extreme cold conditions.
Yellow alert in other districts
A yellow alert has been issued for dense fog in parts of Nainital, Champawat, Pauri, and Dehradun. Frost in mountainous regions may cause driving difficulties and damage crops. Farmers have been advised to take precautions to protect their fields.
Cold winds in Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar are expected to intensify the chill. Health experts warn that children, the elderly, and pregnant women may face difficulties due to the falling temperatures.
Nanda Devi forest fire still raging
Meanwhile, the forests of Nanda Devi National Park in Chamoli district have been burning since January 9. The fire has spread across the Valley of Flowers and Govind Ghat ranges, destroying valuable forest resources, medicinal plants, and threatening rare wildlife.
Two teams of forest workers have been deployed to control the blaze, but steep cliffs have made fire fighting difficult. The fire has now reached green trees, raising concerns of further damage. The Forest Department conducted an aerial survey and initially decided to tackle the fire on its own, though the Air Force was requested for assistance earlier. Workers and laborers are now trying to prevent the flames from spreading to lower areas.
Dual challenge before Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand today faces a dual challenge—changing weather with rain, snowfall, and fog alerts, alongside the ongoing forest fire in Nanda Devi National Park. While authorities are taking steps to safeguard people from cold waves and fog, the forest fire remains a serious environmental concern.
