Yellow alert in 5 Uttarakhand districts; snow on peaks

March 14, 2026

Weather conditions in Uttarakhand are expected to change as the meteorological department has issued a yellow alert in five districts due to the possibility of rain, thunderstorms and snowfall in higher altitudes. Officials have also predicted snowfall on the peaks of the Char Dham shrines in the Himalayan region.

The alert has been issued as a western disturbance becomes active over the Western Himalayan region, bringing clouds and unstable weather conditions across several parts of the state.

Rain and thunderstorm warning in several districts

According to the Meteorological Centre in Dehradun, light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely in multiple districts. A yellow alert has been issued for districts including Dehradun, Nainital, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, and Champawat.

Meteorologists said that thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds may occur at isolated places. Wind speeds could reach 30–50 km per hour, which may affect outdoor activities and travel in some areas.

Residents have been advised to stay cautious during storm activity and avoid open areas during lightning events.

Snowfall likely on Chardham peaks

Higher altitude regions of Uttarakhand are expected to witness light snowfall, particularly in areas above 3,000 metres. This includes the mountainous regions around the four sacred Char Dham shrines — Kedarnath Temple, Badrinath Temple, Gangotri Temple, and Yamunotri Temple.

Snowfall in these high-altitude areas is common during this period when western disturbances pass through the Himalayan belt. Meteorologists have indicated that snowfall may occur intermittently while lower areas experience rainfall.

Weather activity expected for several days

According to the forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department, light rainfall and snowfall activity is expected to continue across the Western Himalayan region, including Uttarakhand, over the next few days. The intensity of rainfall may increase between March 15 and March 16, when scattered showers and thunderstorms are likely across several districts.

Gusty winds and lightning may also occur during this period, prompting the department to keep the yellow alert in place for vulnerable districts.

Authorities advise caution for travellers

Authorities have urged residents and tourists travelling to hill districts to remain cautious, especially in mountainous areas where sudden weather changes can occur. Drivers have been advised to be careful on hilly roads, particularly during rainfall or snowfall.

Tourists planning visits to Char Dham regions or other high-altitude destinations are also advised to check weather updates and follow official advisories before travelling.

With unstable weather expected over the next few days, officials say the alert is mainly precautionary, aimed at ensuring that people stay aware of the changing weather conditions across the state.