Dehradun: Uttarakhand is witnessing a mix of scorching heat in the plains and changing weather in the hills. On Sunday, Dehradun recorded 39.2°C, the highest April temperature in 17 years.
The heatwave forced people indoors, while the administration declared a one-day holiday for schools on Monday to protect children from the rising temperatures.
Heatwave alert in Dehradun
District Magistrate Savin Bansal issued an alert for extreme heat and heatwave conditions. All Anganwadi centers, government, non-government, and private schools (grades 1–12) were ordered closed for the day. The health department was instructed to remain fully prepared, with hospitals on alert to handle heat-related illnesses.
The Chief Medical Officer has ensured that hospitals are equipped with necessary resources to respond promptly to patients suffering from dehydration, heatstroke, or other heat-related conditions.
Highest April temperature in 17 years
On Sunday, hot winds and blazing sun gripped Dehradun from early morning. The maximum temperature touched 39.2°C, breaking records of the past 17 years. In most plains of Uttarakhand, temperatures remained 4–5°C above normal, intensifying the heatwave.
Residents struggled with the heat, preferring to stay indoors. Water and electricity demand surged, while outdoor activities were severely affected.
Weather in the hills
While the plains battled heat, the hilly districts of Uttarakhand experienced changing weather. Light rain was reported in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh, bringing some relief to residents and pilgrims in these regions. Strong winds and cloudy skies added to the contrasting weather pattern across the state.
Relief expected from April 28
According to the Meteorological Centre, Uttarakhand’s weather is expected to change significantly from April 28. Rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds of 40–50 km/h is likely in mountainous areas. An orange alert has been issued, warning residents and pilgrims to remain cautious.
This change is expected to bring relief from the scorching heat in the plains, though heavy rain and hailstorms may disrupt travel and daily life in the hills.
Administration on alert
The district administration has taken precautionary steps to deal with the heatwave. Hospitals are on alert mode, schools have been closed temporarily, and awareness campaigns are being run to advise people to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and take preventive measures.
Officials emphasized that while the heatwave is temporary, precautions are necessary to protect vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and outdoor workers.