Dehradun: Uttarakhand is experiencing contrasting weather conditions today, March 13, with bright sunshine in the plains and chances of rain and snowfall in the hills.
According to the Meteorological Department, scattered light rain, thunderstorms, and lightning are expected in districts like Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh. In higher-altitude areas above 3,800 meters, light snowfall is also likely. This weather pattern is expected to continue until March 18, bringing relief to some regions while posing challenges in others.
Sunshine in Dehradun
The state capital, Dehradun, witnessed clear skies and bright sunshine on Thursday. The maximum temperature rose to 33 degrees Celsius, while the minimum settled at 16. Afternoon breezes provided some relief from the heat, but the rising temperatures in the plains have been noticeable over the past 24 hours. Meteorologists predict that temperatures may drop by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius in the coming four to five days.
Rain and Snowfall in Hills
The hill districts are expected to see scattered showers and thunderstorms today. Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh are on alert for rain accompanied by lightning. Snowfall is likely in higher regions, which could affect travel and daily life in remote villages.
Forest Fires in Chamoli
While some areas await rainfall, Chamoli district is battling forest fires. For the past four days, flames have been spreading near the Diwali Khal motorway in the Karnaprayag development block. Forest wealth worth millions of rupees has already been damaged. Local residents, along with forest department teams, are working tirelessly to control the fire and prevent it from reaching residential areas.
Smoke in Srinagar-Garhwal
In Srinagar-Garhwal, forest fires have also created problems for residents. The Karenkhal forest near Anchal Dairy on the Srinagar-Pauri road has been burning since Wednesday night. Thick smoke has spread across the area, causing inconvenience and health concerns for locals.
IMD has advised caution in hill districts
The Meteorological Department has advised caution in hill districts due to possible thunderstorms and snowfall. Meanwhile, the plains will continue to experience warm and sunny conditions, though a slight dip in temperatures is expected soon.
Uttarakhand’s contrasting weather—sunshine in Dehradun, rain and snow in the hills, and forest fires in Chamoli and Srinagar—highlights the challenges faced by residents across different regions of the state. Authorities are keeping a close watch on both the weather changes and the forest fire situation.