Uttarakhand is reeling from a historic deluge, with the state capital breaking a 101-year all-time one-day September rainfall record. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern warning, forecasting two more days of heavy downpours across the region.
The monsoon remains intensely active, posing significant risks of landslides from the hills to the plains.
A century-old record washed away
According to a report in Hindustan, Dehradun experienced an unprecedented level of rainfall on Monday night into Tuesday morning. The city shattered a record that had stood since the British Raj.
The Sahasradhara area was worst hit, receiving a staggering 264 mm of rain within a 24-hour period. This completely eclipsed the previous September record of 212.6 mm set on September 3, 1924.
This September has reportedly seen 112% above-normal rainfall in Dehradun, contributing to a 21% surplus monsoon season rainfall across Uttarakhand.
Widespread soaking across the state
The torrential rain was not confined to the capital. Data from the Meteorological Centre shows numerous districts were inundated.
Narendra Nagar recorded 200 mm of rainfall. Thal received 130 mm, while Kathgodam saw 134 mm. In the lake district, Nainital was drenched with 123 mm of rain.
Other affected areas included Mussoorie (95 mm), Rishikesh (66.4 mm) and Uttarkashi (66.2 mm). The intense rainfall has raised serious concerns about localised flooding and ground stability.
Official alert for continued heavy rain
Dr CS Tomar, head of the IMD's regional centre in Dehradun, confirmed the severe weather pattern. He stated that the monsoon is currently active across the entire state.
As reported by Hindustan, Dr Tomar has issued a heavy rain alert effective for the next 48 hours. This warning underscores the ongoing threat of further disruption and potential damage.
The cloudburst event in Dehradun that damaged shops and restaurants, with rescue and relief operations underway. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami personally monitored the situation and assured public safety efforts.
The heavy rains also caused river overflows and temple flooding in Rishikesh, alongside school closures in the city to ensure children's safety. The risk of landslides remains critically high as the saturated terrain struggles to absorb more water.
The state administration is on high alert, monitoring the situation closely as Uttarakhand endures this relentless monsoon assault.
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