Snowfall And Rain Disrupt Life Across Uttarakhand, Orange Alert Issued

After news of heavy snowfall in Kashmir, there is news of snowfall in Uttarakhand. Weather conditions across Uttarakhand changed sharply on Basant Panchami. Rain and snowfall began in the hill districts. A fresh western disturbance ended a prolonged dry spell, bringing the season’s first snowfall to several tourist and pilgrimage centres.

Officials said the sudden change in weather has intensified the winter chill across the state. Continuous rainfall since morning was reported from most lower areas and plains, including the state capital Dehradun. The showers caused a sharp drop in temperatures, reviving biting cold after weeks of dry weather.

This comes after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced last week that the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand will see light to moderate snowfall. The IMD said these systems are not exceptionally strong, but they are expected to result in snow accumulation above 3,400 metres, accompanied by cold conditions and potential travel disruptions in alpine regions.

Affected Areas

Officials said that steady rain since morning in most lower areas and plains of Uttarakhand, including Dehradun, has brought back the biting cold. Several places in both Garhwal and Kumaon divisions saw heavy snowfall. Well-known pilgrimage and tourist spots like Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Auli, Chakrata, Dhanaulti, and Munsiyari got fresh snow. Mussoorie also witnessed the season’s first snowfall after early morning rain, with tourists seen enjoying the changing weather as cold conditions intensified.

High-altitude areas such as China Peak and Kilbury in Nainital, Dunagiri in Almora, and Tarkeshwar in Pauri were also covered in thick snow. Nainital city had hailstorms along with rain. People posted videos of the snowfall on social media, showing roads, trees, and houses covered in white. Some clips also showed tourists enjoying the snow on Mall Road and other parts of Mussoorie.

What To Know

If you are travelling in Uttarakhand, you should know that snowfall and rain have also disrupted life in several parts of the state. There are road blockages, and the power supply has been affected. Key routes, including the Joshimath–Auli road to the National Skiing Centre in Chamoli district and the Rudraprayag–Pokhri–Gopeshwar road, have been closed to traffic because of heavy snow.

Officials said snow clearance operations are underway to restore movement. The Chamoli district administration has urged residents and travellers to avoid unnecessary journeys and follow advisories and instructions from authorities.

The Meteorological Department has issued an ‘orange alert’ for snowfall in higher areas and rainfall in lower parts. It has warned of strong winds and possible hailstorms at isolated locations. Travellers have been advised to stay alert and monitor weather and travel advisories.

(With inputs from various sources.)

FAQs

When did the snowfall start in Uttarakhand?
Snowfall started on Basant Panchami after a new western disturbance brought rain to the plains and snow to the hills.

Which areas of Uttarakhand received snowfall?
Popular tourist and pilgrimage spots like Mussoorie, Auli, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Chakrata, Dhanaulti, and Munsiyari. High-altitude places such as China Peak, Kilbury, Dunagiri, and Tarkeshwar.

How has the snowfall affected daily life?
Heavy snow and rain have blocked important roads, and caused power cuts in some districts. Authorities are asking residents and travellers to avoid travel unless necessary.

Which roads are currently closed?
Important routes affected include the Joshimath to Auli road, which leads to the National Skiing Centre in Chamoli, and the Rudraprayag to Pokhri to Gopeshwar road. Snow is being cleared from these roads.

Are there any weather alerts or advisories?
The Meteorological Department has issued an ‘orange alert’ for higher areas expecting snowfall and lower areas expecting rain. Travellers should follow official advice, watch for strong winds and hail, and check updates before travelling.