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Dehradun: The monsoon has intensified across Uttarakhand, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in multiple districts, including Rudraprayag, Dehradun, Nainital, and Bageshwar.

The alert is in effect through July 14, with the IMD warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and intense rain spells in the coming days.

Rivers and streams continue to overflow, triggering landslides and road blockages

According to the IMD’s Dehradun center, light to moderate rain and thunderstorms are likely at most places in Dehradun, Rudraprayag, Tehri, Nainital, Champawat, and Bageshwar districts, and at many locations across the rest of the state. The warning comes as rivers and streams continue to overflow, triggering landslides and road blockages across the hilly terrain.

87 roads across Uttarakhand remain blocked

As of Wednesday, 87 roads across Uttarakhand remain blocked due to landslides and debris. The State Emergency Operation Center reported that 17 roads are closed in Chamoli, 15 in Pithoragarh, 12 in Uttarkashi, 9 in Bageshwar, and several others in Dehradun, Nainital, Tehri, and Rudraprayag districts. Efforts are underway to clear the routes, but frequent landslides are hampering progress.

In Rudraprayag, the Alaknanda River has swollen dangerously, submerging the idol of Lord Shiva and nearby ghats. Meanwhile, a cloudburst in Chamoli’s Shera village earlier this week caused significant damage to homes and fields, forcing residents to flee to safer areas.

Dehradun witnessed heavy rainfall throughout the day on Wednesday

In Dehradun, heavy rain on Wednesday night led to widespread disruption. A person was swept away in Tapovan Khale in the Raipur area, while a massive banyan tree fell on Dhanaulti Road in Mussoorie, damaging a car and a scooter. In Kalsi, 45 vehicles were stranded between Ichhri Dam and Lal Dang due to a landslide. Police and SDRF teams worked overnight to restore traffic.

In response to the worsening weather, the Dehradun district administration has declared a holiday for all schools and Anganwadi centers on July 10. Authorities have urged residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay updated with weather advisories.

Continued heavy rainfall across the state till July 14

The IMD has also forecast continued heavy rainfall across the state till July 14, raising concerns about further landslides, flash floods, and road closures. With the Char Dham Yatra routes also affected, pilgrims are advised to proceed with caution.