Heavy rain hail forecast in Uttarakhand orange alert issued for several districts

Dehradun, May 27 (PTI) The Meteorological Centre here on Wednesday issued an orange alert for several districts of Uttarakhand, forecasting heavy rain, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and squalls that are expected to bring relief from the prevailing heatwave conditions over the next few days.
     According to the weather forecast, an orange alert is in place for May 28 for Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar and Pithoragarh districts. These areas are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hailstorms, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph.
     The remaining districts of the state are also expected to witness isolated thunderstorms, lightning, and winds blowing at 40 to 50 kmph.
     The weather department has extended the orange alert to May 29 for Uttarkashi, Dehradun, Tehri, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar and Pithoragarh districts.
     These pockets are expected to see lightning, hail, and high-velocity winds of 40 to 50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph. Heavy rainfall is predicted at isolated places in Uttarkashi, Dehradun, Tehri, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli districts on Friday, the weather office said.
     A yellow alert has been issued for May 30 and 31 across the state.
     Following the alert, the State Emergency Operation Centre has directed the authorities in the respective districts to remain vigilant and ensure all necessary precautionary measures are in place.
     Officials have been instructed to maintain strict vigil in vulnerable areas, keep disaster management departments on high alert, and ensure that resources are ready for immediate deployment.
     Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman has urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.
     He advised people to stay in safe locations and remain away from trees, electric poles, and weak structures during thunderstorms and high winds.
     He also requested the public to follow the latest weather updates and administrative guidelines.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)