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Dehradun: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in Dehradun, Nainital, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar districts today, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and intense rain spells.
While these districts are yet to see rough weather, Chamoli and Badrinath are already witnessing heightened risks due to continuous rainfall and rising river levels.
Alaknanda River has swelled dangerously near Badrinath Dham
In Chamoli district, the Alaknanda River has swelled dangerously near Badrinath Dham, prompting authorities to evacuate the Brahmakapal area and restrict access to riverbanks. The Chamoli Police have issued advisories urging pilgrims and locals to avoid unstable slopes and waterlogged zones. The weather remains unstable, with light to moderate rain continuing since early morning.
Badrinath National Highway has also faced intermittent blockages
The Badrinath National Highway has also faced intermittent blockages due to debris near Pipalkoti and Nandprayag, with JCBs deployed for clearance. Pilgrims en route to Badrinath are being advised to delay travel until conditions stabilize. Despite the rain, devotees continue to arrive, with local authorities managing crowd movement through token systems and temporary shelters.
Road disruption in Kumaon region
Elsewhere in the state, Almora saw debris fall on the Chausala-Chil road, keeping it closed through Tuesday. In the Nandanagar development block, polling parties from villages like Khunana, Mankhi, Chari, Choprakot, Kandai, and Pagana remain stranded due to the blockage of the Mankhi-Luntara-Kurud road, where rising water levels in Kirtigad have triggered heavy debris flow.
The IMD has flagged a low to moderate flood risk in 12 districts, including Chamoli, Bageshwar, Rudraprayag, Tehri, and Uttarkashi. Emergency teams are on standby, and the State Emergency Operations Centre has instructed district magistrates to monitor vulnerable zones and prepare for possible evacuations.
Brief sunny spells on Tuesday offered temporary relief in Dehradun
In Dehradun, brief sunny spells on Tuesday offered temporary relief, but the IMD warns of renewed rainfall today. The Municipal Corporation has kept drainage teams ready in case of waterlogging. Pithoragarh and Bageshwar, known for landslide-prone terrain, are under close watch, with SDRF units stationed for rapid response.
Pilgrimage routes to Kedarnath and Badrinath remain sensitive. While Kedarnath’s Gaurikund-Sonprayag stretch was blocked earlier due to debris, no fresh disruptions have been reported today. However, authorities continue to regulate movement and monitor sliding zones.
Monsoon spell may persist till August 2
The IMD forecasts that the monsoon spell may persist till August 2, with varying intensity across districts. Tourists and residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in hilly areas and follow official advisories. Relief teams, forest officials, and disaster response units are coordinating efforts to ensure safety and restore connectivity.