Dehradun: The weather in Uttarakhand has suddenly changed on Monday, bringing cold, rain, and the season’s first snowfall. Famous pilgrimage sites like Badrinath and Kedarnath have received fresh snow, turning the mountains white and beautiful. Devotees and tourists were excited to see the snow, but the weather has also caused some problems.
For Tuesday, the Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain and snowfall in high-altitude areas. This alert is especially for districts like Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar. People living in or traveling to these areas are advised to be careful.
Season’s first snowfall in Kedarnath shrine
On October 6, snowfall began around 1:30 PM in Kedarnath Dham. Snowflakes started falling gently, covering the temple and nearby mountains. Devotees at the shrine were happy and took photos and videos of the snow. Many said it was a magical moment. However, due to poor weather, helicopter services were stopped after noon.
Badrinath Dham also received its first snowfall of the season
Soon after, Badrinath Dham also received its first snowfall of the season. The peaks around the shrine were covered with a white blanket of snow. In Hemkund Sahib and the Lokpal Laxman Temple, snow also fell, and the temperature dropped sharply. People living nearby took out warm clothes and heaters to fight the cold.
Landslides threats in Chamoli, Tehri, and Rudraprayag
The snowfall and rain have brought beauty, but also dangers. The Geological Survey of India has warned of landslides in Chamoli, Tehri, and Rudraprayag. Heavy rains have made the soil loose, and there is a risk of falling rocks in the hills. The government has told the SDRF, BRO, Police, and Disaster Management teams to stay alert and be ready for emergencies.
Temperature dropped in Dehradun suddenly
In Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, the weather also changed quickly. On Monday afternoon, the sky became dark, and heavy rain started. People felt cold as strong winds blew through the city. The rain brought the temperature down to 27.4°C, which is three degrees below normal. After the rain, many people took out light jackets and sweaters.
Rains and snow are expected until October 8
According to the weather office, rain and snow will continue in the state until October 8. After that, the weather is expected to become dry. However, officials said that this year, climate change has caused more rain than usual in the post-monsoon season. This is a worrying sign for the future.
Chamoli administration has stopped trekking in the high Himalayan areas
In the mountains, the snowfall has made trekking and travel risky. The Chamoli administration has stopped trekking in the high Himalayan areas for now. Tourists and pilgrims are being asked to avoid risky routes and only travel if necessary. Warm clothes, proper shoes, and safety equipment are advised for anyone heading to the hills.
Cooler weather in plain areas
People in the plains, like Haridwar and Rishikesh, are enjoying the cooler weather. The rain has washed away the dust and heat, making the air fresh and pleasant. Shops are now selling woolen clothes, and tea stalls are busy again.
Amid these forecasts, people are advised to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and steer clear of hazardous areas.