Uttarakhand weather update: Rain, snowfall likely in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Pithoragarh; cold & pollution raise health issues

Dehradun: The chill in Uttarakhand is deepening even as the state experiences largely dry weather. According to the Meteorological Department, light to very light rain and snowfall is expected in parts of Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Pithoragarh, particularly at altitudes above 3,200 meters.

Other districts will remain dry, but temperatures are fluctuating. The minimum temperature is expected to rise by one to two degrees Celsius in the next two days, before dropping again by two to four degrees Celsius later this week. Fog is also likely in the valleys of the mountainous regions.

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Mornings and evenings remain freezing

Despite bright sunshine during the day, mornings and evenings remain freezing. Frost has intensified the cold in higher altitudes, while Dehradun continues to experience chilly conditions. On Sunday, Dehradun recorded a maximum of 25.9°C and a minimum of 7.9°C. Pantnagar reported 24.2°C maximum and 5.2°C minimum, while Mukteshwar recorded 20.7°C maximum and 6.9°C minimum.

Pollution worsens in dry weather

The absence of rain has worsened air pollution in Dehradun, where the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 200 on Sunday, according to readings at the Doon University observatory. For the past week, AQI levels have consistently remained above 100.

Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board explained that pollution lingers longer in winter as cold air is denser, preventing particles from dispersing. Fine particles like PM 2.5 remain suspended, directly affecting the lungs.

Health advisory

Doctors have urged respiratory patients, the elderly, and children to take precautions. People are advised to wear masks outdoors, avoid exposure to cold winds in mornings and evenings, and maintain proper ventilation indoors.

Balancing cold and pollution

While the possibility of snowfall in higher regions may bring relief to farmers and tourism operators, the worsening AQI in the plains is a growing concern. Authorities are monitoring the situation, but residents continue to face the dual challenge of biting cold and rising pollution.