Weather conditions across the hill state of Uttarakhand are set for a notable shift as a western disturbance turns active in the region. The state is expected to experience widespread changes on October 11 and 12, bringing spells of strong winds, rainfall, and snowfall across high-altitude belts. Authorities have indicated that areas located at an elevation above 3,500 meters face high chances of snowfall within the next 48 hours. Visitors planning travel to these elevated locations have been urged to reconsider or plan carefully given the impending conditions.
Rain and Gusty Winds Forecast Across Key Districts
Precipitation is anticipated to impact several districts including Dehradun, Tehri, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, and Bageshwar. Weather Science Centre Director CS Tomar explained that while the monsoon has formally withdrawn from Uttarakhand, the subsequent atmospheric transition is now manifesting through this western disturbance. The system is predicted to be particularly pronounced across the higher terrains. Additionally, within the next 24 hours, isolated pockets of Dehradun, Nainital, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh districts may witness light showers.
High Wind Alert and Warning for Chardham Pilgrims
The regional weather office has issued alerts for thunder, lightning strikes, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 km per hour in multiple locations. With strong winds and drop in temperature expected across elevated zones, a specific advisory has been sounded for pilgrims undertaking the Chardham Yatra. Travelers are advised to remain cautious, as sudden snowfall at higher altitudes can make mountain roads slippery and hazardous.
Hailstorm Batters Crops, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Assesses Damage
Agricultural fields in parts of Uttarakhand endured intense weather on October 10 when a severe hailstorm struck around 12 noon, battering Gadarpur, Dineshpur, and Bazpur. The hail caused substantial damage to standing crops. Upon receiving news of the losses, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami immediately diverted his travel to meet the affected farmers. While returning from Haldwani to Dehradun, he navigated through adverse weather conditions to steer his helicopter toward Udham Singh Nagar district.
The Chief Minister conducted an aerial assessment of the damaged rural belts before landing to walk through the fields and inspect crop losses firsthand. He interacted directly with farmers, heard their grievances, and instructed administrative officials to conduct an immediate survey to deliver prompt relief assistance.
