Weather Alert – Heavy Rain Damages Yamunotri Route as Uttarakhand Faces Fresh Risks
Weather Alert –Continuous heavy rainfall has severely affected daily life across Uttarakhand, with damage reported on a crucial section of the Yamunotri pilgrimage route and authorities stepping up precautionary measures as adverse weather conditions continue across the hill state.
Persistent rainfall that began on Monday night has led to widespread disruptions in several parts of Uttarakhand. The impact has been particularly severe in Uttarkashi district, where a significant portion of the pedestrian route connecting Jankichatti to the Yamunotri shrine has been damaged. Officials have also ordered the closure of schools in five districts on Wednesday after fresh weather warnings indicated the possibility of more intense rainfall.
Yamunotri Pilgrimage Route Suffers Major Damage
According to district authorities, a 25 to 30-metre stretch of the Jankichatti-Yamunotri pedestrian path near Ram Mandir collapsed after the nearby river experienced a sharp rise in water level. The affected section reportedly sank by nearly two to two-and-a-half metres, making it unsafe for pilgrims heading toward the revered temple.
Officials from the Uttarkashi Disaster Management Department stated that the damaged route has been closed for safety reasons. Plans are being prepared to develop an alternative passage, while repair teams are expected to begin restoration work as soon as conditions permit. Pilgrims have been advised to avoid the damaged section and strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities.
IMD Issues Orange Alert Across Multiple Districts
The India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts, including Uttarkashi, Dehradun, Tehri, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar and Nainital. The weather agency has also warned of lightning and isolated spells of extremely intense rainfall in parts of Uttarkashi, Dehradun, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Pithoragarh and Nainital.
Other districts are also expected to receive heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms at isolated locations. In view of the deteriorating weather conditions, district administrations have taken precautionary measures, including the temporary suspension of classroom activities in selected districts to safeguard students and school staff.
Flash Flood and Landslide Threat Remains High
The latest flash flood guidance issued by the meteorological authorities has identified a moderate risk of flash floods in several watersheds over the next 24 hours. Districts listed under the advisory include Almora, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Pauri, Tehri, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag and Uttarkashi.
Officials warned that continued rainfall could rapidly increase water levels in small rivers, seasonal streams and mountain drains. Such conditions may result in flooding of low-lying areas and increase the likelihood of landslides in vulnerable hill regions, potentially affecting road connectivity and public movement.
Authorities Urge Public to Follow Safety Advisories
State Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman appealed to residents as well as Char Dham pilgrims to remain cautious throughout the ongoing wet spell. He advised people to avoid unnecessary journeys, especially through areas known for landslide activity, and to remain updated with official weather bulletins and district-level advisories.
Emergency response teams and district disaster management authorities have been instructed to stay on high alert as forecasts indicate that the rainfall is likely to continue over the coming days. Officials said all concerned departments are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to respond quickly if weather conditions worsen.
Pilgrims planning to visit Yamunotri or other Char Dham destinations have been encouraged to check travel conditions before starting their journey and cooperate with local administrations to ensure their safety during the ongoing monsoon season.