Severe Rainfall Surges in Uttarakhand: Orange Alerts Persist Amidst Heavy Downpours
Uttarakhand, a picturesque state in northern India, is bracing for more rain as the IMD (imdb) continues its active phase. On September 20, light to moderate rain is expected at many places in Pauri, Dehradun, Nainital, and Pithoragarh, and a few places elsewhere.
The IMD has extended the weather warnings issued on September 19, 2025, for Uttarakhand until September 22, 2025. This extension is due to the region's expected continued experience of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall. Vulnerable hilly and urban areas require ongoing caution, as forecasts for extended periods have lower accuracy but are necessary to cover the persistent weather system affecting the area.
On September 19, the IMD issued orange alerts for Dehradun, Pauri, Nainital, Bageshwar, Tehri, and Haridwar districts, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning. The highest rainfall recorded in the past 24 hours was in Narendranagar at 175mm, followed by Mussoorie at 117mm and Dehradun city at 83mm. Other significant rainfall measurements include Haripur (69.8mm), Rishikesh (44.2mm), and Jollygrant (25.8mm).
The IMD warns of heavy rain/thunderstorm activity that may trigger flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas. Multiple weather systems, including upper air cyclonic circulation over east Bihar and adjoining areas, continue influencing the region. The atmospheric pressure remains stable despite active weather systems, indicating sustained monsoon circulation patterns.
Residents should remain vigilant for flash floods, landslides, and swollen rivers. Travel advisories recommend avoiding landslide-prone areas and flood-susceptible routes until weather conditions stabilize after September 22. From September 23-25, many places in hill districts, including Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Champawat, and Pithoragarh, will experience light to moderate rain.
The northwestern region of India has been particularly wet, recording 34% surplus rainfall in August and more than 30% surplus for the entire season. Uttarakhand has recorded 25% surplus rainfall this monsoon season compared to normal levels. The interaction between easterlies and westerlies over the Himalayan belt creates conditions conducive to heavy precipitation and orographic enhancement of rainfall.
As of September 21, Dehradun currently has a temperature of 24°C with 100% humidity and light winds at 5.6 kmph. Maximum temperatures across the state range between 23-34°C, while minimums stay around 12-23°C depending on elevation and rainfall intensity. The 7-day IMD forecast indicates continued monsoon activity with scattered to fairly widespread rainfall expected through September 25.
Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather updates and follow safety guidelines to ensure their safety during this active monsoon phase.
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