Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 29 Oct: Uttarakhand is likely to witness increased rainfall activity over the next 24 to 48 hours due to an active western disturbance and associated atmospheric changes linked to Cyclone Arnab. Although the cyclone-related weather system is not expected to have a direct impact in Uttarakhand, its associated atmospheric developments are likely to influence rainfall activity in various parts of the state.
The weather has already taken a sudden turn across the state, with rainfall reported in Dehradun and several other districts, resulting in a drop in temperatures and an increase in the chill. According to the Meteorological Department (IMD), the ongoing spell of rain is primarily due to the activation of a western disturbance, which is expected to influence weather conditions over the next couple of days.
The next 24 hours are likely to be particularly important for the Garhwal region, where rainfall and thunderstorm activity are expected in several districts. IMD has issued a yellow alert for Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Bageshwar, Chamoli, Champawat and Pithoragarh districts. Light to moderate rainfall is likely at isolated places in these districts, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Gusty winds with speeds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour are also expected, with occasional gusts reaching up to 50 kilometres per hour.
According to the weather forecast, the Kumaon region is likely to experience more intense weather activity tomorrow (on 30 October). The department has issued an orange alert for Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Nainital and Champawat districts, warning of heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds, lightning and hailstorms. The forecast indicates the possibility of adverse weather conditions in both the plains and the hill areas, necessitating precautionary measures by residents and visitors.
The possibility of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and hailstorms could also affect normal life in vulnerable areas, particularly in locations prone to waterlogging, landslides and disruption of road connectivity. People living in mountainous areas have been advised to remain alert and avoid unnecessary movement during periods of intense rainfall and thunderstorms.
With rainfall activity expected to increase in the Garhwal region, particular attention is being drawn to Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag districts, where the prominent Char Dham shrines are located. Adverse weather conditions could cause inconvenience to pilgrims travelling to these destinations, especially in the higher reaches, where temperatures have already started falling. IMD has also forecast the possibility of snowfall in areas situated above 3,200 metres.
The pilgrims and tourists travelling to higher-altitude destinations are being advised to check the latest weather forecast before commencing their journeys and follow advisories issued by the local administration. They have also been cautioned against undertaking unnecessary travel on vulnerable mountain roads during periods of adverse weather.
The administration and concerned agencies are expected to remain alert in view of the possibility of heavy rainfall, hailstorms and snowfall in the higher reaches. Residents and travellers have been advised to exercise caution, particularly in areas vulnerable to landslides and sudden changes in weather.
Meteorological Department Director CS Tomar said that rainfall activity in the state can be attributed to the western disturbance currently influencing the region.
