Torrential rainfall across Uttarakhand has caused multiple rivers to overflow and disrupted normal life in several districts, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning for the next few days. The downpour has raised the risk of landslides, debris falls, waterlogging, and road blockages across the state's vulnerable mountainous terrain.

Rivers in Spate Across Districts

The Bin River in Rishikesh was already flowing in spate, while the Gaula River in Haldwani recorded a significant rise in water levels. Haldwani alone received 192 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending Tuesday, underscoring the intensity of the downpour. In Chamoli district, the Alaknanda and Pindar rivers are also flowing dangerously high following persistent rain, with roads blocked at several locations.

Kainchi Dham Temple and the Shipra River

The usually calm Shipra River near Kainchi Dham transformed dramatically after continuous rainfall since Monday night, overflowing with a volume of water that left onlookers stunned. The river, which originates in Bhawali and merges with the Kosi River at Garampani Khairna, bore no resemblance to its normally peaceful flow. The temple's protective wall and the bridge pillars remained intact, and no structural damage was reported. Religious activities at the temple continued as usual, though the number of devotees on Tuesday was notably low.

Nainital: Drain Water Enters Homes, 23 Families Evacuated

In Nainital district, water from the Kakariya drain flowing behind Pandeychhod village in Alchauna began entering residential areas. By afternoon, the drain's flow had intensified significantly, with water reaching nearly two dozen houses. The district administration, working alongside local residents, launched evacuation efforts and helped families relocate belongings to safer ground. Authorities subsequently issued notices to 23 families in the affected area, directing them to vacate their homes. The affected families are reported to have suffered considerable losses.

Karnaprayag: Rising Pindar River Alarms Residents

Visuals from the Karnaprayag area show the Pindar River's swollen waters and powerful waves reaching dangerously close to residential buildings, hotels, and other structures along the riverbank. Anxiety among residents has grown as the river continues to rise. The administration has repeatedly urged people living along riverbanks to stay alert, exercise caution, and move to safer locations when necessary.

Administration on Alert, Advisories Issued

Officials have warned that continued rainfall could cause river and stream levels to rise rapidly. Residents have been advised to avoid approaching swollen rivers, streams, and other water bodies. The administration is closely monitoring vulnerable areas and urging the public to follow all safety advisories. Authorities have specifically cautioned against venturing near landslide-prone zones and flood-affected roads. With the IMD maintaining its heavy rainfall forecast for the coming days, conditions across the state are expected to remain challenging.