Weather conditions in Uttarakhand are undergoing a significant shift starting June 28, creating contrasting scenarios across different parts of the state. According to the latest forecast from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) center in Dehradun, today will see two distinct types of weather patterns. While the mountainous regions of the Devbhoomi are expected to experience rain accompanied by thunder, those living in the plains will continue to grapple with humidity and scorching heat. While the department has clarified that there is no major warning in place for today, June 28, the weather in the mountains will remain highly sensitive at a local level. Pre-monsoon activities are expected to gain momentum specifically in districts like Pithoragarh and Bageshwar, which may escalate into heavy rainfall in the coming days.
Heatwave Conditions in the Plains
Over the past few days, maximum temperatures in the plains of Uttarakhand have been recorded significantly above normal, causing distress among residents due to humid conditions. An analysis of the last 24 hours shows that Pantnagar in Udham Singh Nagar and Roorkee in Haridwar were the hottest areas, with maximum temperatures reaching 40.0 degrees Celsius. Conversely, in the mountains, minimum temperatures have remained close to normal, making the nights pleasant. Mukteshwar in Nainital remained the coldest spot in the state, recording a minimum temperature of 15.8 degrees Celsius. According to the weather department, there will be no major change in the maximum temperatures across both the plains and mountainous regions of Uttarakhand for the next 2 to 3 days.
Rainfall Expected in Pithoragarh and Bageshwar
Weather conditions are expected to be most active today in the border districts of the Kumaon division. According to the Meteorological Centre, light to moderate rain is highly likely at many places in Pithoragarh and Bageshwar districts on June 28. Some areas in these districts may also witness sharp showers accompanied by thunderstorms. Local administration and the weather department have advised residents and tourists in higher mountainous areas to remain vigilant, as sudden rainfall increases the risk of debris and landslides on mountain roads.
Status of Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Other Mountainous Districts
In the capital city of Dehradun and other major mountain districts including Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Tehri, Pauri, Almora, Champawat, and Nainital, light to moderate rainfall or thundershowers are expected in some places today. During the last 24 hours, rainfall has been recorded as follows: 13.0 mm in Dhanaulti, 11.0 mm in Garud, 8.0 mm in Ranikhet, 7.6 mm in Dharchula, and 6.2 mm in Munsiyari. Furthermore, incidents of lightning strikes accompanied by strong winds have been observed in Mussoorie, Mukteshwar, Chakrata, and Joshimath, contributing to pleasant weather conditions at these tourist destinations.
Drizzle Amidst Heat in Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar
Speaking of the plains of Uttarakhand, Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar (Pantnagar) will continue to face intense humid heat today. However, the weather department forecasts that these two plain districts may experience scattered, very light to light rainfall or thundershowers in some areas. While this drizzle will not provide complete relief from the heat, it could increase humidity levels in the atmosphere. The heatwave-like conditions witnessed in Pantnagar recently have eased for now, but temperatures are still hovering around 40 degrees.
Heavy Rain Alert for June 29: Major Warning for Several Districts
Although the weather department has not issued any major warnings for today, June 28, a 'yellow alert' has been issued for tomorrow, June 29. There is a strong possibility of intense spells of heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by lightning, in parts of Pithoragarh and Bageshwar districts on June 29. Additionally, torrential rain is expected at many places in Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Dehradun, and other mountainous districts, which could lead to a rise in the water levels of rivers and streams.
Forecast of Widespread Rain from June 30 to July 3
The good news for the people of Uttarakhand is that as June ends and July begins, the pace of pre-monsoon and monsoon activity will intensify significantly across the entire state. According to the 5-day advance bulletin released by the weather department:
- June 30 and July 01: Light to moderate rain and thundershowers are expected at many places across almost all districts of the state.
- July 02 and July 03: Widespread heavy rainfall is predicted across most parts of Uttarakhand during these two days. This will lead to a significant drop in temperatures and provide complete relief from the severe heat in the plains.
Important Advice for Travelers and Tourists
Given these significant changes in weather, pilgrims visiting the Char Dham Yatra (Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri) and tourists traveling through mountainous areas are advised to exercise special caution. Keep track of live weather updates while traveling on mountain roads and take shelter in safe locations during lightning or heavy rain.
