Uttarakhand Cloudburst Chaos: Schools Closed in Rudraprayag, Almora, Pithoragarh, & Chamoli
Uttarakhand (India) – The recent Uttarakhand Cloudburst intensified the monsoon challenges in all of India, causing school closings across Almora and Pithoragarh districts, Chamoli district, Rudraprayag district, etc. The authorities have implemented this measure as a precaution to ensure public safety and reduce risks in the face of heavy rains.
The India Meteorological Department has extended severe weather warnings until August 10. The IMD had continuously issued heavy rain alerts from August 3 to August 5. Officials are concerned that landslides and flash floods could occur in many districts with mountains, especially those where schools have been closed.
An official stated that “Schools, Anganwadi centres and other educational institutions in the districts affected have all been closed as a measure of safety.” Closures affect educational institutions from class 1-12, as well as childcare centres. This reflects the level of concern about worsening circumstances.
Multiple districts are feeling the effects of the monsoon. The Ganga River has seen its water level rise, causing significant flooding in Haridwar. This is affecting the local communities and making travel difficult. A large boulder that fell on railway tracks near Haridwar also caused train services to be disrupted, complicating the emergency response.
Flash Flood Tragedy in Uttarkashi
A devastating flash flood that hit Dharali Village in Uttarkashi District on August 5 at around 1:50 pm added to the situation. At least four people were killed in the event that was likely caused by a storm near the Kheerganga River. Over 50 others are still unaccounted for. Rescue efforts are still ongoing, but terrain and weather make it difficult to provide relief.
In recent weeks, orange alerts were in place, but this escalation of red warnings is a reflection of the urgent nature and severity of the situation currently facing. IMD has warned citizens to avoid travelling and remain alert in the affected areas as they deal with unpredictable monsoon activities.
About the Uttarakhand Cloudburst Situation
Uttarakhand in India’s north, known for its mountains, is prone to severe weather, particularly during the monsoon season. Cloudbursts, which bring sudden, massive rains, can cause landslides, flooding of rivers, and other disasters. Local authorities, disaster response teams, and weather forecasters are all working to reduce the effects of such events. They monitor weather warnings as well as prepare themselves for future challenges.
