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Dehradun: Pilgrims on the Char Dham Yatra have been advised to remain extremely cautious as Uttarakhand braces for sudden changes in weather.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for May 12 and 13, predicting rain, thundershowers, snowfall, and strong winds in several districts.

Commissioner’s advisory

Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey urged pilgrims to stay updated with the latest weather reports before planning their travel. “Pilgrims should obtain the latest information and plan their journeys with utmost caution,” he said, stressing that safety must remain the top priority during the yatra.

IMD forecast

According to IMD’s Dehradun center, a new western disturbance has become active in the state. Its impact will be felt from the mountains to the plains. On May 11, thunderstorms and lightning were expected in districts like Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar.

The forecast warns of strong winds blowing at speeds of 40–50 kmph in mountainous areas. Snowfall is likely in regions above 4,000 meters, which could make trekking routes slippery and dangerous. While plains may see a slight rise in temperatures by 2–4°C, conditions in the hills will remain markedly below normal.

Temperature variations

In the last 24 hours, temperatures in Uttarakhand have fluctuated sharply. The highest temperature was recorded at 34.0°C in Roorkee (Haridwar), while the minimum dropped to 11.5°C in Mukteshwar (Nainital). IMD predicts that plains will warm slightly over the next two days but cool again after May 12.

Such fluctuations are not only a health risk for pilgrims but also a concern for farmers. Sudden storms and hail could damage standing crops and fruit orchards.

Advisory for farmers and orchardists

The administration has advised farmers to keep harvested crops safe and avoid storing them in the open. Orchardists have been asked to use anti‑hail nets to protect fruit trees from possible hailstorms. Officials warned that crops left under the open sky could be completely destroyed if severe weather strikes.

Pilgrims urged to be cautious

Authorities have appealed to Char Dham pilgrims to follow weather guidelines strictly. Pilgrims should avoid traveling during adverse conditions, stay in safe holding areas if required, and cooperate with officials along the route.

The administration has increased vigilance in sensitive areas and instructed disaster management teams to remain on alert. Officials emphasized that while the yatra is sacred, safety must come first.