Uttarakhand Weather Alert: Yellow Alert Issued Till October 11, Snowfall and Thunderstorms Likely

Dehradun: Weather conditions in Uttarakhand are set to change significantly following the withdrawal of the monsoon. The Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert for the state from October 6 to October 11, warning of snowfall in higher reaches, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds in several districts. Several parts of the state witnessed gusty winds on Monday, while cities including Dehradun received rain and drizzle. Heavy rain was reported in several areas of Dehradun on Tuesday morning, indicating a shift in weather conditions across the state. Snowfall Likely Above 4,200 Metres According to Meteorological Director Dr. C.S. Tomar, significant snowfall is likely in mountainous areas located at elevations of 4,200 metres and above between October 6 and 8. During this period, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds is expected in parts of the Kumaon and Garhwal divisions. While the hills are likely to experience unsettled weather, most plain districts are expected to remain largely dry. From October 9 to 11, snowfall is expected to extend to areas at elevations of around 3,800 metres. The changing weather conditions and snowfall in higher reaches are likely to result in a noticeable drop in temperatures. Yellow Alert for Seven Districts The Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for Chamoli, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Almora, Rudraprayag and Uttarkashi. Winds with speeds of 30 to 40 kmph are likely in these districts. The department has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning strikes and advised residents and visitors to remain cautious during periods of severe weather. Rain Forecast for Six Districts Light to moderate rainfall is likely in Nainital, Champawat, Almora, Dehradun, Tehri and Pauri on October 6 and 7. The department has warned that intense thunderstorms and lightning may occur during this period. Weather activity in the mountainous regions could also influence temperatures in the plains, leading to cooler conditions in several areas. Public Advised to Remain Alert With snowfall expected in the higher reaches and thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds forecast in several districts, residents and tourists have been advised to monitor weather updates and exercise caution, particularly in mountainous areas. The weather is expected to remain relatively dry across most plain districts, although conditions may change depending on the intensity of activity in the hills.