The Uttarakhand Meteorological Department has issued a severe warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state for the next three days, from Sunday to Tuesday. Director Bikram Singh of the Meteorological Centre has urged residents to exercise special caution, particularly as six districts have been placed under a red alert, indicating an exceptionally high risk of intense precipitation.

The capital city, Dehradun, experienced continuous rainfall late into Saturday night, setting the stage for the anticipated deluge. The advisory strongly recommends local district administrations in these red alert zones to close schools as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students. This intensified weather activity marks a critical period for the Himalayan state, known for its vulnerability to natural disasters during the monsoon season.

Red Alert for Six Districts: High Impact Expected

The red alert has been issued for Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Haridwar, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar, where extremely heavy rainfall is highly probable. For the remaining districts of Uttarakhand, a yellow alert has been issued, signifying the likelihood of heavy rainfall, though not as severe as the red alert areas.

The Meteorological Department has specifically warned about several critical impacts of the impending heavy rains:

• Waterlogging in Low-Lying Areas: Extensive waterlogging is expected in urban and rural low-lying regions, potentially disrupting daily life and local transportation.
• Swelling Rivers and Drains: Rivers and seasonal streams (nullahs) are predicted to overflow their banks, posing a significant risk to communities residing near water bodies.
• Landslides and Land Subsidence: The advisory highlights a high probability of landslides and land subsidence in sensitive, geologically vulnerable areas. These events can severely impact infrastructure and human settlements, particularly in the hilly terrains.
• Caution for Travelers: Pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra and other travelers venturing into mountainous regions have been specifically advised to exercise extreme caution on steep slopes due to the increased risk of rockfalls and landslides.

Director Bikram Singh emphasized the potential for very heavy rainfall in multiple districts, necessitating special precautions from Sunday through Tuesday. Authorities are urged to remain vigilant and responsive to rapidly evolving weather conditions.

Police and Administration on High Alert in Dehradun

In light of the severe weather warnings, the Dehradun Police has heightened its vigilance and increased patrols in coastal areas and near riverbanks. Early on Saturday, police personnel in Dehradun and Rishikesh’s riverside localities used loudhailers to warn residents to stay away from swollen rivers and drains during the downpour. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajay Singh has directed all police stations to maintain extraordinary caution and be prepared for any emergencies.

The police advisories also include strong recommendations for the evacuation of residents from low-lying areas and those living on the banks of rivers and drains to safer locations. In Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar, districts prone to extensive waterlogging, residents are advised to take specific precautions to manage potential flood-like situations. Similarly, communities in sensitive areas prone to landslides have been urged to relocate to secure places identified by local authorities.

Road Closures and Rainfall Data

The heavy rainfall has already begun to affect Dehradun district, with four rural roads closing due to debris from landslides. While the administration claimed these roads would be cleared by Saturday afternoon, such closures often cause significant inconvenience to local commuters and disrupt essential services. The affected routes include Purkul-Bhitarli to Kimari, Saura Sarauli to Akhandwali Bhilang road, Rawana Purori road, and Chamroli-Sarona Mort road.

Over the past 24 hours, most parts of Uttarakhand have experienced torrential rainfall. Notable rainfall figures include:

• Dehradun: 97.8 mm (by 11 AM)
• Chamoli: 185.5 mm
• Jolly Grant: 169.2 mm
• Narendranagar: 75.5 mm
• Kapkot: 118 mm
• Haridwar: 50.2 mm
• Bageshwar: 42 mm
• Lansdowne: 40 mm
• Dharchula: 39.2 mm

Bageshwar district has witnessed continuous heavy rainfall, and the Meteorological Department predicts that these conditions will persist, increasing the risk of landslides and land subsidence in the region. Similar situations are anticipated in other hilly districts, leading to potential disruptions in road traffic and connectivity.

Preparedness and Safety Measures

The severe weather alert necessitates a high level of preparedness from both the administration and the public. Key safety measures for residents include:

• Stay Informed: Continuously monitor official weather updates from the Meteorological Department and local authorities.
• Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Limit travel, especially to hilly and flood-prone areas, during the red alert period.
• Secure Homes: Take steps to secure homes and property, especially in areas prone to waterlogging or high winds.
• Emergency Kits: Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies like food, water, medicines, and a first-aid kit.
• Stay Away from Water Bodies: Strictly avoid going near rivers, streams, and flooded areas. The force of rapidly flowing water can be deceptive and extremely dangerous.
• Report Incidents: Immediately report any signs of landslides, flooding, or other emergencies to local authorities.

The coming days will test Uttarakhand’s resilience against the forces of nature. The coordinated efforts of the Meteorological Department, district administrations, police, and public cooperation will be crucial in mitigating the impact of these severe weather conditions. KKNLive.com will continue to provide real-time updates and essential advisories as the situation unfolds in Uttarakhand.