Dehradun: Monsoon activity remained intense across Uttarakhand on Monday, with widespread rainfall affecting both mountainous and plain areas. Persistent showers and overcast conditions have disrupted normal life in several parts of the state, while landslides have affected traffic on a number of mountain routes.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed Dehradun and Tehri under an Orange Alert, warning of heavy to very heavy rain at isolated locations. Thunderstorms and lightning are also expected during intense spells.
For the rest of Uttarakhand, a Yellow Alert has been issued, with forecasts indicating isolated heavy rainfall along with thunderstorms. The weather department has cautioned that wet conditions are likely to continue over the coming days.
Dehradun has reported water accumulation in low-lying areas following spells of heavy rain. Meanwhile, swollen rivers and streams have added to concerns in several locations.
The Kumaon region has also been receiving substantial rainfall, with Pithoragarh witnessing particularly difficult conditions after heavy showers over the weekend. Continuous rain in the hills has led to landslides and the accumulation of debris on roads.
Traffic movement was affected for several hours on the Tanakpur-Tawaghat National Highway and the route associated with the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after landslides blocked sections of the roads. Debris also briefly disrupted the Askot-Karnaprayag road between Berinag and Thal.
The Thal-Munsiyari road faced another setback after a dumper truck became stuck near La-Jhekla, resulting in a prolonged traffic halt and leaving several vehicles stranded.
According to the weather forecast, spells of rain and thunderstorms are likely to persist in different parts of Uttarakhand between August 18 and 20. With the ground already saturated in many hilly areas, the possibility of additional landslides, falling debris and road blockages remains a concern.
