Uttarakhand weather update: Dry weather continues; river and streams freeze in Gangotri, cold wave grips hills

Dehradun: The Meteorological Center has issued a rain and snowfall alert for parts of Uttarakhand. While the weather will remain dry on December 12 and 13, light rain and snowfall are expected on December 14 in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Pithoragarh districts.

According to forecasts, snowfall is likely at altitudes above 3500 meters. Lower districts will remain dry, but high-altitude regions may see fresh snow. This change in weather comes as winter intensifies across the state, with temperatures dipping sharply in the mountains.

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Severe cold in Gangotri

The cold wave is already visible in Gangotri Dham and the Gangotri National Park area. Night temperatures have dropped to minus 9 degrees Celsius, freezing rivers, springs, and even drinking water pipelines. Residents, police, and forest personnel are facing difficulties as frozen pipelines have blocked water supply, forcing them to carry water from the Bhagirathi River.

Snowfall has already occurred on the high peaks of Gangotri National Park, but Gangotri Dham itself has not yet received snow. The maximum temperature in Gangotri Dham was recorded at -0.4°C, while the minimum dropped to -9.9°C.

Frozen water sources

Forest personnel patrolling the closed Gangotri National Park reported frozen water sources at five to seven locations along the Gomukh trek. The freezing of waterfalls and streams has created challenges for locals and visitors, highlighting the severity of the cold wave in the region.

Fog in valleys

The Meteorological Center also predicted light fog in some valleys of Uttarakhand during the week. This could reduce visibility and make travel difficult in the mornings and evenings.

Rain and snowfall expected in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Pithoragarh on Dec 14

With rain and snowfall expected in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Pithoragarh on December 14, residents and tourists are advised to prepare for colder conditions. The dry spell in other districts will continue, but the cold wave is likely to intensify further.

Snowfall may disrupt normal life

The upcoming snowfall may add to the beauty of Uttarakhand’s high-altitude regions, but it also brings challenges for daily life, transport, and water supply. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation to ensure safety in affected areas.