An orange alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for 14 areas across 7 districts in Uttarakhand for the next 24 hours. The water level of the Alaknanda river is rising, posing a risk of floods and lightning strikes.
Dehradun: The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall in 14 areas across 7 districts of Uttarakhand for the next 24 hours. Heavy downpours are occurring continuously in the hilly regions of the state, causing a rapid increase in the water levels of rivers and streams. In the Rudraprayag district, the water level of the Alaknanda river has reached dangerously close to the danger mark, prompting the local administration to enhance vigilance.
The ghats situated along the banks of the Alaknanda river in Srinagar and surrounding areas have been completely submerged. Movement is being affected as water has reached the link road leading to Dhari Devi.
Flood threat due to rising Alaknanda river water level
According to data released by the Irrigation Department on Friday morning at 8 AM, the water level of the Alaknanda river has reached 535.80 meters, which is just a few inches below the danger level. Department officials state that if the intensity of rainfall continues, the water level may rise further, posing a serious threat to the safety of people living along the river banks.
Water is being continuously released into the river through the Srinagar Hydroelectric Project, increasing the possibility of waterlogging in the lower-lying areas. Experts believe that if the current situation persists, it could lead to flood-like conditions in Srinagar and surrounding rural areas.
Administration advises people to remain alert
The district administration has instructed residents living along the river banks to remain alert and take necessary precautions. The control room is operational 24 hours, and police and disaster management teams are continuously monitoring the situation.
The administration has appealed to the public not to pay attention to rumors, to contact officials immediately in case of any emergency, and to try and stay in safe locations.
Heavy rainfall alert issued for 48 hours
According to the Meteorological Department, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to continue in the hilly regions of the state for the next 48 hours. During this period, there is also a possibility of lightning strikes, b winds, and landslides.
Under the orange alert, special vigilance has been advised in areas of Bageshwar, Chamoli, Champawat, Dehradun, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, and Udham Singh Nagar, including Joshimath, Kashipur, Munsiari, Chakrata, Doiwala, Sonprayag, Kapkot, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangolihat, Kichha, Khatima, and Lohaghat.
