Dehradun. The monsoon has surged again across Uttarakhand, with the state Meteorological Centre forecasting intense rain showers from 26 to 28 September. Forecasts call for heavy to very heavy rain, and in isolated pockets extremely heavy downpours, triggering red and orange alerts in several districts.

At the same time, fresh snowfall has blanketed the high‑altitude shrine of Hemkund Sahib, sending temperatures sharply lower at the pilgrimage site.

Red Alert for Five Districts on 26 September

Red warnings have been declared for Bageshwar, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar, where heavy to very heavy rain and occasional extreme bursts are expected.

Orange alerts cover Dehradun, Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag and Almora, where similarly strong rain is likely.

Rain Expected to Persist on 27 September

On 27 September, Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar and Pauri are slated to receive heavy to very heavy rain, with isolated areas possibly seeing extreme showers. These districts remain under a red alert.

Nainital, Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag are also forecast to endure heavy to very heavy rain accompanied by winds of 30‑40 km/h, prompting orange alerts.

Continued Showers on 28 September

The rain band is expected to linger into 28 September, especially over parts of Uttarkashi, Haridwar and Dehradun. Thunderstorms and intense rain bursts may occur at scattered locations.

Landslides and Flash Floods Remain a Threat

The centre cautions that light to moderate landslides and rock falls could affect vulnerable hill zones during the heavy rain spells. Road networks may be blocked, river levels could rise swiftly, and flash flooding in streams may jeopardise low‑lying settlements.

Temporary structures, bridges and construction sites are also at risk, and essential services such as electricity and drinking water could face interruptions.

Impact on Char Dham Yatra and Helicopter Operations

Ongoing downpours may disrupt the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, mountaineering activities and helicopter services. Pilgrims and tourists are urged to stay vigilant, avoid non‑essential travel through hazard‑prone areas, and steer clear of swollen rivers, streams and drains.

Authorities advise residents to remain indoors during intense rain periods and refrain from crossing zones affected by active landslides.