Uttarakhand Braces for Severe Rainfall as IMD Issues Red Alert, Schools Closed
Dehradun: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Uttarakhand, forecasting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across multiple districts from September 2 to September 3, 2025. The warning has prompted the closure of all schools and anganwadi centers in 10 districts, including Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar, to ensure the safety of students and staff amid worsening weather conditions.
The IMD’s alert highlights the risk of intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning, particularly in Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Nainital, Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, Bageshwar, Almora, Champawat, and Pithoragarh. Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain vigilant, especially in landslide-prone areas, as the heavy downpours could trigger slope failures and road blockages. The State Disaster Management Authority has instructed district magistrates to maintain heightened preparedness, with emergency response teams, including the NDRF and SDRF, on standby to address potential crises.
In Dehradun, the district administration emphasized the increased likelihood of landslides due to continuous rainfall, prompting the closure of educational institutions up to Class 12. Similar measures have been implemented in other affected districts, with schools and anganwadi centers shut to prevent risks to children and staff. The IMD also noted that major rivers in the state are swelling, raising concerns about potential flooding in low-lying areas.
The Uttarakhand government has advised residents near rivers and streams to stay alert and relocate to safer areas if necessary. The suspension of the Kedarnath Yatra for three days, starting September 2, reflects the severity of the weather forecast, with authorities prioritizing the safety of pilgrims and locals. The IMD’s warning follows a pattern of severe weather events in the region, with recent cloudbursts and landslides causing significant disruption. For the latest updates, residents are encouraged to monitor advisories from the IMD and local authorities.