Fresh rainfall and snow bring sudden cold weather across Uttarakhand

Weather Shift

Uttarakhand is experiencing a sharp change in weather as light rain hits the plains and fresh snowfall covers the hill regions. According to the Meteorological Department, districts including Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh are expected to see light to moderate rainfall. Areas located at a height of 3,200 meters and above are likely to receive snowfall, while ETV Bharat notes that high-altitude zones above 3,300 meters could also witness snow accumulation.

Local Impact

In Almora, morning fog and cold evening winds have led to a drop in temperatures, with the maximum temperature falling by 0.4 degrees and the minimum by 0.2 degrees. Saturday's maximum temperature was recorded at 23.1 degrees Celsius and the minimum at 9.3 degrees Celsius, compared to 23.5 and 9.5 degrees Celsius on Friday. The chill and morning fog have reduced market activity and public movement during the early hours, while Dehradun is expected to see a maximum temperature of 29 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 16 degrees Celsius.

Advisory

Authorities have advised tourists visiting high-altitude regions to stay alert, and farmers have been urged to take safety measures to protect their crops. Dense fog in the valleys can lower visibility, creating difficulties for drivers on mountain roads.

Context

Winter weather changes in mountainous states like Uttarakhand typically arrive in phases, starting with high-altitude snowfalls before descending into the valleys and plains. Such seasonal shifts are common during the post-monsoon months, bringing lower temperatures that affect daily routines, local farming, and tourism across the hill districts.