Heavy rainfall has triggered landslides along the Badrinath National Highway, causing severe disruptions, including on the route to the pilgrimage site. Key areas along the highway, including Lambagad, Nandprayag, Sonala, and Barrage Kunj, have been blocked by debris. The situation worsened when the alternate route between Sakot and Nandprayag, typically used in emergencies, was also blocked by landslides, leaving travellers stranded.

In response, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and District Magistrates have been put on high alert. Authorities have urged residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel as the heavy rain wreaks havoc across Uttarakhand.

Earlier, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for several southern districts of Uttarakhand, signalling an extremely severe weather warning. An orange alert, which indicates a lesser degree of severity but still dangerous conditions, has been issued for other parts of the state.

The heavy rainfall is being driven by a weather system – a depression that formed over northwest Uttar Pradesh. According to the IMD, this system centred near Bareilly, is expected to weaken into a low-pressure area within 12 hours.

However, before it subsides, it will continue to cause scattered clouds and 'intense convection' in southern Uttarakhand, leading to more rain and possible thunderstorms. The northern parts of Uttarakhand, eastern Rajasthan, and northwest Madhya Pradesh are also likely to experience moderate to intense rainfall accompanied by gusty winds.

In Nainital district, continuous rainfall has caused flooding in low-lying areas. The Haldwani-Sitarganj road has been closed due to an overflow of water in the Shernala area, prompting authorities to advise travellers to take alternative routes or avoid travelling until conditions improve. With more rain expected, residents and tourists are advised to stay informed and exercise caution until the weather stabilises.

(With inputs from multiple reports)